Emotions

Question

Lately, I’ve been struggling with managing my emotions. I’m typically a calm person, but recently, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, and frustration, and it’s affecting my relationships and work life. I’ve noticed that my emotional state fluctuates a lot more than it used to, and it’s becoming harder to regulate how I feel. At times, I feel like I’m unable to control my reactions to situations, which has been really frustrating.

I’ve tried various methods to manage my emotions, like journaling, meditation, and exercise, but it still feels like something is missing. I’m beginning to think that my emotions are linked to deeper issues, such as unresolved stress or imbalances in my overall health. I’ve heard that Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to managing emotions by focusing on balancing the doshas, but I’m not sure how to apply that to my situation.

I’ve read that certain herbs and practices in Ayurveda, like Ashwagandha and Brahmi, can help calm the mind and improve emotional stability. I’m curious if there are any Ayurvedic remedies or lifestyle practices that can support emotional well-being and help me regain balance. Could focusing on my diet and daily routines help improve my emotional health in a more sustainable way?

Has anyone dealt with emotional instability and found relief through Ayurvedic treatments or natural remedies? What worked for you, and how did you incorporate these practices into your daily life?

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

It’s completely natural to experience fluctuations in emotions, especially when stress and unresolved issues build up over time. From an Ayurvedic perspective, emotional imbalances are often linked to disturbances in the doshas—Vata imbalance can cause anxiety and overthinking, Pitta can lead to anger and frustration, and Kapha may bring heaviness and sadness. Identifying which dosha is out of balance can help you tailor your approach to emotional well-being.

Certain Ayurvedic herbs can be incredibly supportive for emotional stability. Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress, Brahmi calms the nervous system and enhances mental clarity, and Shatavari nourishes emotional resilience. Drinking warm milk with nutmeg and turmeric at night can promote relaxation, while Tulsi tea can help ease mental fog and uplift mood. Along with herbs, daily self-care routines (Dinacharya)—like waking up early, oil massage (Abhyanga), and spending time in nature—can regulate emotions and create a sense of balance.

Diet also plays a crucial role in emotional health. Eating warm, grounding foods like cooked vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like ghee and sesame oil) can stabilize mood, while avoiding excess caffeine, processed foods, and refined sugar can prevent emotional crashes. Breathwork (Pranayama), especially Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), is excellent for balancing emotions.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

In Ayurveda, emotional instability is often linked to an imbalance in the doshas, particularly Pitta and Vata. Pitta, when aggravated, can lead to frustration, anger, and stress, while Vata imbalances can cause anxiety and mood swings. To regain balance, incorporating calming herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi can be helpful. Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress, while Brahmi is renowned for promoting mental clarity and emotional calm. Additionally, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, with foods that are grounding and nourishing, such as warm, cooked meals, and seasonal fruits. Practices like meditation, yoga, and pranayama (breathing exercises) are also essential in calming the mind and stabilizing emotions. Regularity in your daily routine, known as Dinacharya, can bring structure and reduce emotional volatility. By incorporating these Ayurvedic remedies and lifestyle practices, you may find more sustainable emotional balance and a deeper sense of well-being.

Emotions - #17085

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions