Ayurveda defines health as a state; when one possesses a balancing status of the three ‘Doshas’ (Vata, Pitta & Kapha), ‘Dhatus’ (Body tissues) and ‘Agni’ Digestive fire. Along with this physical parameter, Ayurveda focuses on a pleasant and healthy state of mind and soul. Ayurveda treatment for mental wellness and stress relief mainly focuses on addressing Vata and Pitta dosha. The treatments for stress relief and mental wellness include: adopting a holistic approach that include lifestyle, dietary modifications, pranayama, yoga, internal herbal medicines in the form of ghee-based medicine, herbal decoctions, tablets, powders and external therapies like Shirodhara, Takradhara, Talapothicil, Abhyanga and Panchakarma procedures.
Our expert Ayurveda doctors in Back to Roots Ayurveda clinic Abu Dhabi analyze the patient’s condition through a physical examination, Nadi Pareeksha (pulse diagnosis), Prakriti analysis (Body type analysis) and plan personalized Ayurvedic therapeutic interventions for mental wellness.
The Top 5 Ayurvedic Treatments for Stress Relief and Mental Wellness
Shiro Abhyanga
Ayurveda recommends daily application of oil on the head, ear folds and feet. The application of oil on the head followed by a soothing massage is Shiro Abhyanga. It is a very relaxing and rejuvenating therapy that targets the neck, shoulder and head to release stress and tension. It enhances blood circulation to the brain, stimulates the senses and melts away bodily tension. This treatment is good for headaches, chronic neck and shoulder problems, prevention of hair fall and graying of hair. The patient will get good sleep and a state of mental well-being.
Pada Abhyanga
Ayurvedic foot massage is Pada Abhyanga. It stimulates the vital points in feet and nerve endings, enhances circulation and nourishes the entire body including skin and hair. By the practice of Pada abhyanga, individuals can get pain relief, stress reduction, mental calmness, improve energy level and immunity, relieve fatigue, improve focus and concentration, good eye vision etc. Both Pada abhyanga and Shiro Abhyanga control Vata dosha.
Shirodhara
Shirodhara is the pouring of medicated warm oil in a continuous stream on the forehead. It controls Vata and Pitta dosha, improves oxygen circulation in the brain, activates vital points in the head, relaxes body and mind, reduces fatigue, improves sleep quality and is indicated as an effective therapy for anxiety and depression.
De-toxification/ Virechana
Virechana (Therapeutic purgation) is one of the important Panchakarma procedures that controls Pitta and associated Kapha dosha. It eliminates the accumulated toxin from the body. Imbalance of Pitta can cause anger, irritability, mental stress etc. Virechana helps to eliminate vitiated Pitta from the body, cleansing the colon and brings about mental calmness.
Talapothichil/ Shirolepa
Thalapothichil/Shirolepam is a traditional Kerala Ayurveda treatment, in this treatment, herbal paste is prepared by adding buttermilk and it is applied over the head in the form of a pack. It is an effective therapy for insomnia, psychosomatic conditions, hypertension and several skin conditions. It corrects Vata and Pitta, induces mental calmness, cooling effect to the head and body, promotes quality of sleep, reduces stress,anxiety and promotes hair growth.