What is the difference between sympathetic and parasympathetic systems in Ayurveda? - #16588
For the past few months, I’ve been feeling like my body is in a constant state of stress. I get random heart palpitations, sweaty palms, and a tight feeling in my chest, especially when I’m under pressure. But then, on other days, it’s the complete opposite—I feel sluggish, exhausted, and mentally foggy, like my body is shutting down. I started looking into it and found out that these reactions might be related to the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which apparently control stress and relaxation responses. The sympathetic system is supposed to be responsible for the "fight or flight" response, and the parasympathetic system is for "rest and digest." But I feel like my body is totally unbalanced between these two states. Sometimes, I get into this overdrive mode where I can’t sit still, my mind is racing, and my heart beats faster for no reason. Then, suddenly, it flips, and I can barely keep my eyes open, like I have no energy left. I want to understand how Ayurveda explains this. Does Ayurveda recognize these two systems in a different way? Could my issue be linked to Vata, Pitta, or Kapha imbalances? If so, how do I bring my body back to balance? I’ve heard that Ayurveda has solutions for nervous system disorders, but I don’t know where to start. Are there specific herbs or dietary recommendations that help stabilize these sudden fluctuations in energy and stress? I also read that pranayama and meditation can regulate the nervous system—are there specific techniques that are more effective for people who experience this imbalance? I don’t want to depend on stimulants to stay alert or sleeping aids to relax—I want a natural, long-term way to keep my nervous system in check. I’d love to hear if anyone has gone through something similar and how Ayurveda helped them find stability. Any advice would be great!
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