Stress & Sleep Disorder - Why Should You Consider Ayurveda Your Rescuer?
Are you looking for Ayurvedic treatment for improving your sleep? The principles of Ayurveda state that sufficient sleep along with a proper diet, and wise utilization of energy are important for maintaining good health.
Ayurvedic Consideration:
According to Ayurveda, the vitiation of the three doshas either taken all together or individually may result in sleeplessness. All factors, that are responsible for the aggravation of Vata and/or pitta including environmental and dietary factors play an important role in sleep disturbances. High Vata type of sleeplessness is caused by Vata imbalance or mental stress. People, who toss and turn, unable to fall asleep because their mind is spinning, have this disorder. It results in sadness, fear, worry and rushed activity during the day. Whereas in pitta imbalance, there is intermittent awakening. You may fall asleep quickly, but wake up frequently with a feeling of having faster heartbeats and emotional disturbances such as anger. Another pattern is that you wake up before dawn and find it difficult to go back to sleep. There are certain health principles and ways that you should follow for improving quality of sleep, getting rid of stress and boosting your energy levels.
They are as follows:
- Maintain a disciplined sleep schedule: You should be very disciplined regarding your sleep. Try to sleep early which gives you the time to sleep throughout the night. Wake up early the next morning. Your mind is stable, slow and dull from 6 pm to 10 pm. This is a perfect time for getting good sleep.
- Mindful eating: It is recommended for you to have your dinner early between 6:30 to 7 pm. The Agni (digestive fire) starts cooling down after the sun sets. You can improve your digestion by eating light, early meals. This is beneficial for your sleep quality. While eating, you should avoid doing other activities such as reading books, watching television, or involving yourself in conversations.
- Oil application: Oil application therapy is a primary part of Ayurvedic treatment for stress and sleep disorder. Applying oil to your feet followed by a good massage is important for improved sleep. There are nerve endings in your feet, which are nourished because of oil massage. Massaging helps in stress relief, makes you feel relaxed, and improves the circulation of the three doshas in their respective channels. As a result of all these, your sleep gets drastically improved. You should consult an Ayurveda Physician who can help you choose from several herbal oils for massage.
- Pranayama: Pranayama is considered to be very important for improving sleep disorders and stress. Several rounds of alternate nostril breathing or 'Nadi shodhana pranayama' should be undertaken on a regular basis. This is effective for the mind and you are bound to get deeper and longer sleep of high quality.
- Practice self-compassion: Your wellness and health depend considerably on a balance among your mind, body and soul. It is important for you to keep away from negative vibes and always try to be present in a positive environment. You should be mindful over who you talk to right before going to sleep. Ideally, you should switch off your mobile, computer, television, and social media activities, at least two hours before going to sleep.
- Regular exercises: Regular exercises are very important for you to stay healthy and fit physically, which in turn helps you to maintain a healthy state of mind. This is vital for improving sleep disorder and eliminating stress.