Alright, let’s dive into this. You’re dealing with a classic case of Vata imbalance, the primary dosha linked to insomnia and anxiety. It’s not uncommon to see these symptoms alongside each other. Ayurveda’s approach here is super holistic, targeting both mind and body.
First off, herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi are great choices here. Ashwagandha is a powerhouse for reducing anxiety and helping restore energy without stimulating the mind too much. You might wanna take it around 5 PM with warm milk – if dairy works for you – or almond milk is a great alternative. It’s not just about falling asleep, but improving the quality of sleep.
Brahmi is another herb that’s fantastic for calming the mind, promoting restful sleep. It’s safe to combine with Ashwagandha. You can have Brahmi in powder form, maybe 1/2 teaspoon once a day with hot water or milk before bedtime.
Abhyanga, the oil massage you mentioned, is spot-on, especially in late afternoon or early evening. Sesame oil is balancing for Vata, so warm a bit of it up and massage it onto your scalp, hands and feet. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before a warm shower. This not only grounds the nervous system but also provides a calming routine before bed.
Routine is queen for Vata. Try setting a consistent sleep schedule, getting to bed by 10 PM if possible. Even though it’s hard initially, the body craves that regular rhythm. Limiting screen time an hour before bed helps calm the sensory overload, too.
Regarding your diet, favor warm, nourishing foods. Think soups, stews, or khichdi. Spices like cardamom, cumin, and ginger ignite Agni (digestion), making meals more soothing and balancing for you right now.
Remember though, these need time. Ayurveda is gradual, a lifestyle shift rather than quick fix. But taking steps like these could help steer you towards much better sleep and less anxiety. If it persists despite these efforts, consulting a local Ayurvedic practitioner would be wise.
Sweet dreams soon, my friend!



