Anesthesia Awareness: Can Ayurveda Help Heal the Trauma of Waking Up During Surgery?

Question

A few years ago, I experienced anesthesia awareness during surgery, and it was the most terrifying experience of my life. I was fully aware but unable to move or speak, and I could feel parts of the surgery. Since then, I’ve struggled with anxiety, panic attacks, and sleep disturbances.

I’ve read that Ayurveda has treatments that help reset the nervous system and reduce trauma. Are there Ayurvedic herbs or therapies that help with emotional healing after anesthesia awareness? Can meditation or breathing techniques help calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety?

If I ever need surgery again, is there anything Ayurveda recommends to prepare the body so that anesthesia awareness doesn’t happen again? Has anyone used Ayurveda to recover from anesthesia awareness, and what helped the most?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Namaste,

Anesthesia awareness is a deeply traumatic experience that can leave lasting emotional effects. Ayurveda focuses on calming the Vata dosha, which governs the nervous system, to promote healing and reduce anxiety. Here are some recommendations:

Herbal Support:
Ashwagandha: A powerful adaptogen that reduces anxiety and supports the nervous system. Take as a capsule or mixed with warm milk.
Brahmi: Known to calm the mind and promote emotional balance. Brahmi tea or capsules can help ease panic and improve sleep.
Jatamansi: A natural sedative that soothes the nervous system and aids in trauma recovery.
Therapies:
Abhyanga (Self-Oil Massage): Use warm sesame or Brahmi oil to calm the nervous system. Massage before bedtime for relaxation.
Shirodhara: A steady stream of warm oil poured over the forehead, traditionally used for deep emotional healing and nervous system balance.
Breathing & Meditation:
Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances Vata and calms anxiety.
Guided Meditation: Helps process trauma and reset the mind.
Pre-Surgery Preparation:
Strengthen the mind and body with Ashwagandha and Brahmi at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Practice calming routines and meditation to stabilize Vata before any future procedure.
Healing takes time, but with consistent Ayurvedic practices, many find emotional balance and improved resilience. Wishing you peace and complete healing!

Anesthesia Awareness: Can Ayurveda Help Heal the Trauma of Waking Up During Surgery? - #14838

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