Define and conquer your stress with Yoga and Ayurveda

Stress comes in many shapes and manifestations.  We all feel it to some extent.  Some more so than others.  Here’s the beautiful news–the ancient science of Ayurveda–friend and companion to our beloved yoga–can help us all pinpoint how we process stress, and how to counter it through changes to our daily lives, diets, and our yoga practices.  It offers us a healing path, and shows us how to achieve a better balance.

To understand how it works, we first have to understand ourselves and the type of imbalance we are experiencing.  If you find you are prone to distraction, worry, frustration and anxiety, you are likely suffering from a Vata (air) imbalance.  If, during periods of stress, you find yourself getting angry, having outbursts, and are often critical, you may be engaged in the throes of a Pitta (fire) imbalance.  Feeling stubborn, lethargic or eating too much during stressful times?  Then it is most likely a Kapha (earth) imbalance. 

 Now that you understand what your stress “type” could be,  Ayurveda methods can help you find practical ways to relieve it.  Quite simply, once you know its origins, you can more successfully find ways to heal.

Techniques include eating certain foods based on the type of stress you are feeling. Even the presence of certain scents or changes to your environment can be helpful. 

Finally–and not unexpectedly–gentle yoga movement can also assist, and will work in concert with the changes you make to your diet and surroundings.

For a Vata imbalance, a slow, meditative practice is recommended.  Those of us who suffer from a Pitta imbalance should try turning to the more restorative poses, including twists and seated folds. To remedy a Kapha imbalance, try a more vigorous regimen that includes backbends and inversions. 

The ancient art of Ayurveda is a bit more complex than what I have described here :-) Thousands of years of studying human nature, physiology and the universe would almost certainly have to be.  But with this post, I hope I have at least piqued your curiosity and gently urged you to explore alternative and, quite frankly, well-established and sensible ways to pursue a healthier body and soul.   

Use Yoga. Explore Ayurveda. Find Peace.