Wow, that sounds really intense. It’s understandable that you’re dealing with such tough feelings after an experience like anaesthesia awareness. Ayurveda does offer ways to support healing from trauma and to help rebalance your nervous system.
First, you’re right about Ashwagandha – it’s well-known in Ayurveda for its adaptogenic properties. It helps the body adapt to stress and may indeed support your nervous system in calming down. Take around 500 mg of Ashwagandha extract with warm milk before bed; it can promote relaxation and also improve sleep. But, ofcourse, it’s not a magic bullet, it’s more about nurturing your system over time.
Regarding herbs, Brahmi and Jatamansi are also great. Both are traditionally used for their calming effects on the mind. You can take them in tea or capsule form to help stabilize your mind. Brahmi can be particularly helpful for mental clarity and soothing anxious thoughts.
Meditation and pranayama (breathing techniques) are excellent for processing trauma. Start with Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing). It helps balance the left and right hemispheres of the brain and can be very grounding. Spend about 5-10 minutes daily practicing this breathing. Meditation, even if just a few minutes a day, can help create a sense of peace and slow down racing thoughts.
On diet, focus on sattvic foods – which include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. They are known to promote clarity and calmness of mind. Tumeric and ginger may also provide an extra layer of support as they’re anti-inflammatory, which can help soothe physical discomforts you mentioned.
For future surgery prep, ensuring your mind and body are in a sattvic state can be beneficial. Also, talking with your medical team about your past experience could help in preventing it from happening again.
It might not be a straight path, but consistent practice and self-care can make a difference. But, don’t hesitate to reach out to medical professionals for support in what you’re going through, esp if things feels too overwhelming. You’re not alone in this journey.
