Why do I always feel short of breath? - #628

Experiencing breathlessness, fear, and panic attacks upon seeing someone is an intense reaction that Ayurveda recognizes as a Vata imbalance, specifically related to mental and emotional stress. In Ayurveda, panic attacks are often linked to aggravated Prana Vata, the type of Vata dosha that governs mental functions, emotions, and the nervous system. To manage and gradually reduce these reactions, calming herbs like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), and Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) are very beneficial as they calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and help balance Vata.

Practicing Nasya (nasal drops) therapy with Anu Tailam in the morning can help relieve mental tension and support emotional balance. Abhyanga (self-massage with warm sesame oil) before a bath can provide grounding to the nervous system and reduce stress. Additionally, drinking warm milk with a pinch of nutmeg or a few strands of saffron before bed can support restful sleep and reduce anxiety.

Diet plays an important role in stabilizing emotions—favor warm, nourishing foods, avoid caffeine and processed foods, and include calming herbs like fennel and cumin in meals. Daily breathing exercises, especially Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Bhramari (humming bee breath), are effective for relieving anxiety and creating mental calm. Regular meditation or mindfulness practices will further help in managing the panic response.

Feeling breathless or experiencing panic attacks when seeing someone could stem from deep, internal triggers. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to addressing this. Let’s dig a bit deeper. It’s important to understand that such reactions can be linked to imbalances in the vata dosha, which is associated with air and space elements, often responsible for anxiety and fear.

When vata is disturbed, it can result in feelings of restlessness, uncertainty and that flight-or-fight mode you seems to describe. It might help to create a routine that grounds you. Regularity is key with vata imbalances. Start your day with a cup of warm water infused with ginger and a pinch of cumin, this can help stabilize the mind and start your agni—your digestive fire—on a strong note.

You might also want to try practicing some Abhyanga—that’s self-massage with warm sesame oil. Do it in slow, loving strokes and allow the oil to penetrate for about 15-20 mins before a warm shower. It kind of serves to ground your nerves a bit.

And then there’s this whole realm of pranayama, or breathing techniques. The alternate nostril breathing, Nadi Shodhana, can be particularly calming. Practicing it for ten minutes daily can work wonders on the nervous system.

Diet-wise, favor warm, cooked foods that are a little on the oily side but easy to digest. Root veggies like sweet potatoes, carrots—think grounding qualities. You’d want to avoid raw and cold foods for now, they can be aggravating to vata.

If you find that these approaches help but don’t fully resolve the issue, there may be a deeper emotional layer to explore. Maybe journaling could assist in untangling whatever this person represents to you emotionally. But if the panic attacks persist or intensfiy, do prioritize seeking professional medical help immediately in case there’s more to it.

Meanwhile, take it slow, be patient with yourself… Life has a way of unraveling things in time.