In 2020, the world changed abruptly when a previously unknown virus paralyzed the world. The coronavirus and the resulting pandemic demanded much from us and led to severe illness and many lives lost. Regardless of viral infection, the new situation created by the pandemic also caused great psychological stress, which brought about changes in daily life rhythm and further illnesses.
The most important facts at a glance
- Chronic stress can lead to physical and psychological health problems.
- Ashwagandha helps reduce Vata and balance stress.
- Kapha disorders can develop through excessive consumption of sweets and lack of movement.
- Pitta disorders manifest as heartburn and inflammation and should be treated with appropriate herbs.
Daily rhythm is disrupted
Stress is a natural part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to a variety of physical and mental health problems. According to Ayurvedic principles, stress is created by an imbalance of the Doshas. The new news in the Corona years caused much movement in our minds – Vata, which is also referred to as wind. Little was comprehensible and the unknown caused fear and sleepless nights, leading to changes in eating habits and daily routines.
Too much Vata
One of the most important principles of Ayurveda is to avoid the triggering causes of Dosha disturbance. Ashwagandha, a widely used Vata-reducing Ayurvedic plant, is the remedy of choice as an herbal preparation or tea to balance stress. It is sweet in rasa (taste) and in guna (property) oily and heavy, thus Kapha-increasing, which in turn reduces Vata.
Too much Kapha
Many people chose a different Kapha-increasing method instead of tea. The demand for chocolate, nuts, and sweet bread spreads developed steadily upward. Combined with generally reduced movement, this led to weight gain, diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels, and lack of drive – the classic signs of Kapha disorder. Taking their symptoms seriously, there were enough people who took Kapha-reducing, langhana (lightening) measures, for example through a fasting week.
Too much Pitta
In people who did not make this turnaround, we observe an increase in Pitta Dosha, the fire. This creates heartburn, gastritis, diarrhea, inflammation, bleeding, and skin eczema. Pitta-reducing herbs such as Guduchi, Manjistha, potato juice to reduce stomach acid, Shepherd's purse, and Yarrow for bleeding, Fumitory-pansy tea, Vettupala, or Tamanu oil for skin problems and Pitta tea are now at the top of the shopping list.
Breaking the downward spiral
The cause of unchecked Pitta Dosha is again Vata. For the stress, the wind, that constantly blows into the fire, Pitta, fans it and creates the symptoms described. To prevent chronification of complaints, it is time to think about personal ahara / vihara (nutrition / lifestyle).
Diet
The diet should be warm and regular, rich in good, seasonal fruits and vegetables, good oils and fats such as ghee or sesame oil, and many fresh herbs and spices. Turmeric, ginger, cumin, coriander, and Pippali support the digestive tract, reduce bloating, and reduce inflammation tendency. Coffee, white sugar, excessive meat consumption, alcohol, and finished products with additives should be avoided.
Supportive spice blends
Use spice and tea blends that bring your Dosha back into balance. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha spice blends are prepared according to Ayurvedic medicine rules and are, along with good nutrition and adequate exercise, an important building block for a healthy body and balanced Doshas.
Calming the mind
You calm the Doshas that negatively affect the mind and lead to restlessness, fear, depression, or anger with gentle yoga exercises, Pranayama (alternate nostril breathing), meditation, and walks in nature.
Holistic approach
Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to stress management by addressing Dosha imbalances through lifestyle and dietary changes. This includes work with herbal dietary supplements, natural remedies, and self-care practices for holistic root treatment rather than pure symptom management. However, it is sensible for proper Ayurvedic therapy to have a constitution analysis and Dosha determination performed by an Ayurveda practitioner and not to consume herbs on your own. Ayurveda can be used in conjunction with modern medicine and can lead to better results, but should be practiced under the guidance of a qualified Ayurveda therapist.
Conclusion
The pandemic showed us how important it is to take care of our physical and mental health. Chronic stress can disrupt the balance of the Doshas and lead to health problems. Through balanced nutrition, the use of Ayurvedic herbs and spices, and conscious lifestyle, you can reduce stress and restore your inner balance. It is advisable to be accompanied by a qualified Ayurveda therapist to receive individually tailored treatment.
