It sounds like you’ve been going through a frustrating time with this stomach ache. In Ayurveda, a few key things we often look at for recurring digestive issues are imbalances in the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta, and the state of your digestive fire, or ‘Agni.’ Your symptoms of discomfort, bloating, and cramping can point towards a Vata-Pitta imbalance—an excess of these doshas messing with your digestion. Stress and anxiety, as you mentioned, can indeed aggravate this imbalance, as they tend to increase Vata.
Let’s talk about some steps you can take. First, working on calming your Agni could help. You might want to try sipping on warm water throughout the day to promote digestion, as cold drinks can dampen Agni. Include ginger in meals as it can help stimulate digestion. Also, instead of eating too much at once, have smaller, consistent meals at regular intervals—this can keep your digestive system from getting overwhelmed.
For herbs, consider taking Triphala—it’s a traditional blend of three fruits that gently balances digestion and detoxifies. Take 1 teaspoon with warm water before bed. Remember, though, that herbs work best when paired with lifestyle adjustments.
Diet-wise, favor warm, cooked foods over raw salads—steer clear of those icy smoothies. Think of light but nourishing meals like kitchari (a simple dish of rice and mung dal), which is super kind to digestion. And avoid leftovers, as they can be hard on Agni, leading to toxins build up, known as ‘ama’ in Ayurveda.
Stress reduction is essential. Practice abhyanga, a self-massage with warm sesame oil before a shower - it not only relaxes you but supports Vata balancing too. Consider daily routines involving yoga or meditation—these practices can be balancing for mind and body.
Since you raised the question about acidity, you might find relief with cumin and coriander—both help pacify Pitta. Drink coriander tea, which is just a teaspoon of coriander seeds steeped in hot water.
Herbal teas can definitely be your friend. Try fennel tea after meals to ease any bloating or crampiness.
While Ayurveda can work wonders, it is key to be patient and consistent—it might take a few weeks to notice significant changes. If your symptoms persist or worsen, though, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions. An Ayurvedic practitioner can provide a pulse diagnosis for a more personalized approach.
Stick with these strategies, and don’t stress about immediate results. It’s about finding balance and giving your body time to heal itself.
