Why do I experience extreme anxiety when looking down from heights? - #16741

It sounds like you're dealing with some intense stuff there. The body's response you described is pretty classic for acrophobia, and it's amazing how the body mind acts up even when there's no real physical danger. It's like our survival instincts go into overdrive, right? Now, when we look through an Ayurvedic lens, what you’re experiencing could tied to an imbalance in your Vata dosha. Vata governs movement and nervous system activity, so when it gets out of whack, it can lead to anxiety, fear and feelings of being ungrounded. To address this naturally, you might want to explore adjusting your diet and lifestyle to pacify Vata. Think warm, cooked foods over cold, raw ones. Plenty of soups or stews abound with spices like ginger, turmeric, and cumin. Regular meals are important too, as irregular eating can stir up Vata even more. Staying hydrated but not overdoing cold drinks can help too. Meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) are definitely beneficial. Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) is calming for Vata. Try sitting comfortably and use your right hand to close your right nostril, inhale deeply through your left, then switch by closing the left and exhale through your right. It's simple, but damn effective when practiced regularly. And yep, Shirodhara can calm the nervous system. The repetitive stream of warm oil over the forehead can provide deep relaxation and clarity. But remember, these treatments work best as part of a broader routine. As for herbs, Ashwagandha is pretty well known for its ability to reduce anxiety by soothing the nervous sytem. Perhaps consulting with a local Ayurvedic practitioner to get the right doses is a good move. I have worked with people who've faced similar issues, and they often notice a difference when they consistently integrate these practices into their lives. Be patient with yourself; it takes time, but know there's potential for healing here without relying on meds all the time. 🌿