MENTAL HEALTH ~ AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE
According to the National Institute of Mental Health [NIH], major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Depression affects more than 10 million Americans each year. It is so common in our society that it is estimated that one in 9 people will be diagnosed with it at one point in their life.
Digestion and Feelings ~ An Ayurvedic Perspective – “Gut Health”
According to Ayurveda, healthy Agni (digestive fire) creates an overall sense of happiness and joy. When the Agni is suppressed, there is grief, sadness and depression. Interestingly, there are a large number of clinical studies correlating “gut health” to overall wellness, including the effects on mood. Even further, it has been estimated that there are between 400 to 600 million nuerons in your gut. The enteric nervous system uses more than 30 neurotransmitters, just like the brain, and in fact 95 percent of the body’s serotonin is found in the gut.
Healthy Lifestyle:
Ayurveda stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Once you get into the habit of maintaining a healthy routine, you will be able to see, feel, and experience the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
6 Simple Tips For Mental Wellness:
1. Obseve nature. Wake up early and watch the morning sun rise.
2. Bring life into the body. Therefore eat fresh and wholesome food.
3. Revitalize the body and mind with regular yoga practice and breathing techniques.
4. Reflect upon your feelings and emotions. Therefore, be still and meditate.
5. Cultivate meaningful relationships with people whom you trust.
6. Love yourself, you deserve it.
Interesting Thoughts From Ayurvedic Professionals:
I asked several highly respected individuals in the field of Ayurveda, how to develop wellness of the mind in daily life and this is what they had to say …
“At a very basic level, if our vital life-force energy is stuck or not moving properly then this can affect our overall health. Prana comes into the body and mind in the form of food, water, breath, sensory impressions. For overall mental health, one may want to consider shirodhara with or without PK, pranayama, wholesome associations with people, and proper sleep.”
– Mary Bruck, Ayurvedic Professional
“Agni governs secretions of neurotransmitters which becomes understanding. The understanding is a higher cerebral activity & comes from healthy Sadhaka pitta. If Sadhaka Agni is low, the result can be chemical depression.” [reflecting upon Dr. Vasant Lad’s teachings]
– Anupama Butani, Ayurvedic Professional
“The under and overutilization of the sensory organs, objects of perception, and the mind can be thought of as the root causes of disease according to ayurvedic principles. Regarding the senses, consider instrumental music and madhura rasa [sweet taste] as it enlightens the mind. Also consider chanson [sandalwood], jasmine, rose, etc. as these pleasant smells bring replenishment to the mind.”
– Dr. A. Rangaprasad Bhat, Ayurvedic Physician
“Regarding the senses, the beach/ocean is an excellent healing place. It’s got all that for the senses. Back in the day, Drs would send patients to the seaside to recover from all sorts of maladies.”
– Linda Rowe, Ayurvedic Professional
Disclaimer:
Educational Purpose Only. Not Medical Advice.
For medical advice always seek consultation from your primary care physician.
