fear of spiders - #19305

For as long as I can remember, I have had an intense fear of spiders. Even small ones make me feel anxious, and I often find myself avoiding places where I might encounter them. I recently learned that this condition is called arachnophobia, and while some fear is natural, my reaction seems excessive. I want to understand—what causes an extreme fear of spiders, and does Ayurveda offer any natural ways to manage and reduce phobias? From what I read, arachnophobia is a common fear rooted in evolutionary survival instincts, but in some cases, it becomes overwhelming. Since Ayurveda views the mind and emotions as governed by the Doshas, could an excess of Vata or Pitta contribute to excessive fear and anxiety? One of my biggest concerns is that my fear of spiders affects my daily life. I often check corners and ceilings before entering a room, and if I see a spider, I feel rapid heartbeat, sweating, and intense panic. Could Ayurveda explain why some people have heightened fear responses? Does it recommend any herbal tonics like Brahmi or Ashwagandha to calm the nervous system? I have also read that breathing exercises and meditation can help control fear-based responses. Does Ayurveda suggest specific Pranayama techniques, visualization methods, or grounding exercises to rewire the brain’s reaction to fear? Would Shirodhara (oil therapy) be beneficial for calming the mind? Since my fear of spiders is deeply ingrained, I want to take a holistic approach to managing it. Are there any Ayurvedic therapies, diet changes, or daily routines that help balance the mind and reduce excessive anxiety related to phobias?