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Stress Management through Ayurveda

Published on 10/10/24

(Updated on 10/19/25)

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Stress Management through Ayurveda

Written by

Dr. Harsha Joy

Nangelil Ayurveda Medical College

I am Dr. Harsha Joy, and I mostly work with women who are struggling with stuff like hormonal issues, skin flare-ups, hair thinning, or fertility troubles that don't always have one straight answer. Over the years, I’ve realised that real healing doesn’t come from a standard protocol—it comes when you actually sit with a person, understand what their day looks like, how they eat sleep think feel. That’s where Ayurveda makes all the sense in the world to me. My clinical work revolves around women’s health—especially gynecology and infertility care. Many women who reach out to me have tried many things, felt confused or unheard. Whether it’s PCOS, irregular cycles, or just feeling "off" hormonally, I try to look at the root imbalance—agni, ama, ojas—basic Ayurvedic fundamentals that still explain modern conditions better than most charts or labels. Fertility support is something close to my heart... we don’t rush anything. It’s more like—let’s fix the ecosystem inside first. I also work with chronic skin and hair problems. Acne that just won't leave, hyperpigmentation, postpartum hair loss, oily scalp with dandruff... and again, for these too, it’s usually not a skin problem. It’s digestion, stress, sleep, circulation—internal stuff showing up outside. We work with diet tweaks, gut reset, herbs, maybe some lepas or sneha therapy—but always after tuning into what *your* body wants. Outside my clinic I write a lot. I'm part of content teams that simplify Ayurveda into understandable bits—whether it's about hormonal balance or skincare or daily routines. Writing has helped me reach people who aren’t ready to consult but want to start somewhere. And I think that matters too. I don’t believe in intense detoxes or piling on medicines. The work I do is slow, layered, sometimes messy—but that's healing. That’s what I try to offer—whether someone walks in with hair loss or years of failed fertility cycles. Every body has its own story and my job’s just to hear it right. Maybe guide it back home.

Stress is one of the biggest antagonists of modern society. It plays an important role in reducing one’s productivity and affects both the physical and mental health of an individual. Stress could be the result of big changes in life or unavoidable circumstances even due to the pressure that is beyond the individual’s capabilities. Regardless of the reasons, stress acts as a grave inhibitor in leading a fulfilling and satisfying life. There are many ways to manage stress but Ayurveda’s approach to stress management is not only holistic but also involves building routines and regimens that help in solving the root cause of stress and not just the symptoms.

What Is Stress and Its Causes?

Stress is the natural response to any threats or challenges in one’s life. They are in a state of worry or mental tension in such situations. Stress is experienced by everyone to some degree and it is essential to make sure it has been dealt with. Stress is manifested due to many reasons like big changes in life or unavoidable circumstances even due to the pressure that is beyond the individual’s capabilities.

Stress affects both the mind and the body. A little bit of stress is good and can help us perform daily activities. Too much stress can cause physical and mental health problems which can overwhelm anyone resulting in a harder life compared to the ones that manage the stress.

Ayurvedic Approach to Stress Management

In order to achieve a balanced life, stress management is important. Of the many methods, the Ayurvedic approach to stress management plays a significant role in cultivating a holistic and fulfilling method.Ayurveda is a holistic system of medicine that originated in India thousands of years ago. It takes a whole-body approach to health and well-being and believes that stress is one of the main causes of disease. Ayurveda implies many methods to not only reduce the symptoms but also ensure that the root cause is identified and resolved and suggests lifestyle and other changes to ensure that this situation is not repeated again.

Some of the stress management through Ayurveda that’s followed by Ayurveda practitioners in accordance with its principles are:

Diet:

Ayurveda believes that food is medicine. A healthy diet is essential for managing stress. Ayurveda recommends eating fresh, organic produce, whole grains, and vegetarian protein. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that beat back free-radical damage, cutting your susceptibility to stress and fatigue. Eating according to your Ayurvedic constitution is also important. Ayurveda recognizes three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each Dosha has its own dietary recommendations. Eating according to your Dosha can help balance your body and mind, reducing stress.

Herbal Supplements:

Ayurveda uses herbal supplements to manage stress. “Worry Free” is one of the powerful formulas used in Ayurvedic stress relief remedies and treatment and are quite effective in relieving a person from stress. It is rich in Ashwagandha and Jatamansi, which help to balance Vata. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body cope with stress. Jatamansi is a calming herb that helps to soothe the mind.

Some of the herbs that are said to be calming and stress-reducing include:

Ashwagandha: This herb is known as an adaptogen, which means that it helps the body to adapt to stress. It can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and boost energy levels.
Chamomile: This herb is a natural sedative and can help to promote relaxation and sleep.
Turmeric: This spice has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to reduce stress and improve overall health.
Lemon balm: This herb is known for its calming and soothing effects. It can help to relieve anxiety and promote relaxation.Yoga and
Meditation:

Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. It is a great way to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and boost energy levels. There are many different types of yoga, so you can find one that is right for you.

Meditation is a practice of focusing the mind on the present moment. It can help to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. There are many different types of meditation, so you can find one that works best for you. Some popular types of meditation include:

Mindful Meditation: This type of meditation involves focusing on the present moment without judgment.
Breathing Meditation: This type of meditation involves focusing on your breath.
Guided Meditation: This type of meditation involves listening to a guided meditation recording.

Aromatherapy and Massage:

Aromatherapy uses essential oils to promote relaxation and improve mood. Some essential oils that are said to be calming and stress-reducing include:

Lavender: This oil is known for its relaxing and calming effects. It can help to promote sleep and reduce anxiety.
Chamomile: This oil has similar properties to lavender and can also help to relieve stress and anxiety.
Ylang-ylang: This oil is known for its uplifting and calming effects. It can help to improve mood and reduce stress.

Massage is a great way to relax the body and mind. It can help to reduce stress, improve circulation, and boost energy levels. There are many different types of massage, so you can find one that works best for you.

Lifestyle changes:

Ayurveda recommends making lifestyle changes to manage stress, some of which include:

Spending time in nature: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels. Go for a walk in the park, hike in the woods, or simply sit in your backyard and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Get enough sleep: When we’re well-rested, we’re better able to cope with stress. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Learn to say no: Don’t be afraid to say no to things that you don’t have time for or that will add to your stress levels.
Take breaks: When you’re feeling stressed, take a few minutes to step away from whatever you’re doing and do something relaxing. This could be taking a walk, listening to music, or reading a book.

It is important to find a combination of stress management techniques that works for you. Some people may find that one technique is more effective than others. It is also important to be consistent with your stress management practices. The more you practice, the better you will become at managing stress. These Ayurvedic stress relief treatments and remedies help in providing this tailored method that helps in destressing.

If the situation persists then it is important to consult an expert to find the right approach.

Ask-Ayurveda is a platform that helps connect patients with experts through Ayurveda online consultation in order to get proper treatments for their problems. Ask-Ayurveda offers consultations for health and lifestyle-related issues and provides appropriate measures and regimens in order to alleviate the issue.

For a detailed consultation regarding stress and an effective Ayurveda treatment, reach out to our experts at Ask-Ayurveda .

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

Questions from users

What are some specific Ayurvedic herbs or practices that can help someone with high anxiety?

Violet

142 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

142 days ago

For high anxiety, Ayurveda suggests herbs like Ashwagandha, which helps your body handle stress better, and Jatamansi for calming the mind. You could also try using Chamomile for its natural relaxing properties. Practicing yoga and meditation, especially focusing on breath, can be super helpful too! And don't forget to have a look at your diet according to your dosha. If you're still having trouble, it might be good to chat with an expert.

How can I incorporate aromatherapy into my meditation practice for better relaxation?

Olivia

118 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

117 days ago

To incorporate aromatherapy into your meditation, pick essential oils that balance your doshas. For Vata, try warming scents like cinnamon or ginger. For Pitta, cooling oils like sandalwood or lavender work well. Kapha benefits from energizing aromas like eucalyptus or rosemary. Just add a few drops to your diffuser or apply on pulse points before meditating. Happy relaxing!

What are some specific foods or herbs that can help reduce stress for each Dosha type?

Sofia

128 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

127 days ago

For Vata, try grounding foods like warm soups and stews, sweet fruits like bananas or dates, and calming herbs like ashwagandha. Pitta types may benefit from cooling foods like cucumbers and melons, coconut products, and soothing herbs like brahmi. Kapha folks, go for light and spicy foods like ginger and leafy greens to lift energy. Listening to your body is key, eh!

What are some lifestyle changes I can start right away to help manage my stress?

Mia

123 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

122 days ago

For managing stress, try incorporating regular walks, soothing music, or reading into your routine. Simple steps like these can balance your mind and body. Also, pay attention to your diet according to your dosha. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out for a personalized Ayurvedic consultation to find what might work best.

What are some effective ways to incorporate Ashwagandha and Jatamansi into my daily routine?

Michael

113 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

112 days ago

You can easily add Ashwagandha and Jatamansi to your day! Try mixing Ashwagandha powder into smoothies or warm milk in the morning. Jatamansi you could use as a tea or even an essential oil for calming effects. Both support Vata balance, so aim for consistency for best results. Start with small amounts and listen to how your body feels :)

How can I tell which Dosha I have and what stress relief techniques work best for me?

Nora

108 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

107 days ago

To figure out your Dosha, you might wanna look at your physical traits, emotional tendencies, and even your digestion. You could take an online quiz or see an Ayurvedic practitioner for a more precise answer. For stress relief, if you're Vata, try calming activities like yoga or meditation. Pitta folks might need cooling, soothing practices, while Kapha types could benefit from energizing exercises. It’s kinda about what feels balancing for you personally, ya know?

What are some specific Ayurvedic foods or herbs that can help reduce stress?

John

103 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

102 days ago

Ashwagandha's a great one for stress; it calms the mind and strengthens the body. Brahmi is another herb that kinda helps improve concentration and soothe nerves. Foods like almonds and warm milk with a pinch of turmeric can be nourishing for reducing stress as well. It's about finding what suits your body best!

What are some specific dietary changes I should make according to my Dosha for stress management?

Olivia

98 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

97 days ago

So, managing stress through diet according to your dosha is a great idea! If you're Vata, focus on warm, nourishing foods like cooked grains and veggies. Pitta types do well with cooling foods, like cucumbers and leafy greens. Kaphas benefit from lighter meals—think warm, spicy foods to ignite the digestive fire. Remember, cooking methods matter too—Vatas love soups, Pittas prefer crisp veggies, and Kaphas enjoy steaming. If any unsure about your dosha, a consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner can help!

How can I incorporate more antioxidants into my diet to help manage stress?

Lincoln

88 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

87 days ago

Great question! Antioxidants are awesome for stress relief. Look for vibrant colored fruits and veggies, like berries, spinach, and sweet potatoes. They're loaded with antioxidants. Adding herbs like turmeric and tulsi to your meals or teas might help too. Eating according to your dosha can optimize these benefits, but try not to overthink it—just aim to enjoy those naturally colorful foods!

What are some effective yoga poses I can try to help reduce stress during a busy day?

Michael

93 days ago

Dr. Harsha Joy

92 days ago

try Child’s Pose or Cat-Cow poses! Both are simple but powerful for relaxation and grounding. Also, incorporating some deep belly breathing while in these poses can really help calm you down and reduce stress. Don't forget to take a moment for yourself during the busy day, it can be magical! 🌿✌️