Absolutely, your concerns are quite understandable. It’s good you’re looking into various ways to support your mental well-being. So let’s dig into what Ayurveda has to say about anxiety and depression.
Firstly, Ayurveda usually views mental health concerns like anxiety and depression through the lens of dosha imbalances. Vata imbalances, which relate to air and space, can often manifest as anxiety, while kapha imbalances, linked to earth and water, may express as depression. Sometimes, there can be an overlap. Balancing these doshas can help align your mental state.
Herbs like Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) are known in Ayurveda for their adaptogenic properties, which potentially lower stress and enhance mental clarity. You’d want to start with a small dosage, maybe 300-500 mg of Ashwagandha twice a day, and 250 mg of Brahmi daily, but it’s vital to discuss this with your doctor first as interactions with Prozac are possible.
To address the fatigue and emotional numbness, incorporating practices like Abhyanga (self-oil massage) using warm sesame oil could stimulate your nervous system and boost circulation. You could do this in the morning before showering to feel more awake and connected.
Diet-wise, favor warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest. Avoid cold, dried, and raw foods, especially if you’re feeling anxious. Stay grounded with wholesome meals like mung dal, basmati rice, and cooked veggies, seasoned with spices like cumin and coriander.
Since you’ve already started with healthier lifestyle habits, keep going with mindfulness practices, but also integrate pranayama like Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) for calming the mind and balancing energies. Just sit down in a comfy spot and practice for about 5-10 mins daily.
It’s crucial to let your healthcare provider know if you’re making these changes. They might need to monitor and adjust any medication if the Ayuervedic remedies influence your symptoms.
Lastly, remember this journey to balance is individual and can take time. Be kind to yourself—every step is progress. Catch yourself if you stray, gently bring yourself back. Embrace patience during this holistic healing process.
