How Does Ayurveda Treat Insomnia And Sleep Disorders?
Insomnia and other sleep disorders are highly disruptive to one’s life and can devastate one’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Fortunately, Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing system, has been used to treat insomnia and other sleep issues for thousands of years. Keep reading to learn more about the efficacy of this time-honored treatment and how it might help you get a better night’s rest.
Ayurveda, a holistic medicine from India, dates back over 5,000 years. It is founded on the idea that mental, physical, and spiritual balance is necessary for good health and well-being. Ayurvedic treatment for insomnia and sleep disorders frequently focuses on reestablishing the body’s equilibrium through dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and herbal remedies.
How Does Ayurveda Treat Insomnia And Sleep Disorders?
Even though sleep is a vital component of our lives, it is frequently one of the first things to suffer when stressed or unwell. As a result, there may be a vicious cycle whereby insufficient sleep causes more stress and anxiety, which in turn causes even less sleep. Ayurveda may be beneficial if you are trying to get some rest but have been unsuccessfully battling insomnia or another sleep disorder.
- It uses diet, lifestyle, and herbal remedies to restore harmony to the mind and body. Herbal remedies that induce a state of calm and relaxation are frequently used in this treatment.
- Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Gotu Kola are some Ayurvedic herbs commonly used to treat sleeplessness.
- Herbal supplements, teas, and oils are all viable delivery mechanisms for plants. Ashwagandha, in particular, has been shown to be effective in studies for lowering stress and enhancing sleep.
- Ayurveda suggests changing one’s routine. This includes not consuming caffeine after 2 p.m., following a soothing bedtime ritual, and sleeping in a cool, dark room.
By following these, one can finally start getting the quality sleep one needs and deserves.
Common Ayurvedic Remedies For Insomnia & Sleep Disorders
Ayurvedic medicine holds that optimal health is attained when an individual’s mental, physical, and spiritual selves are in harmony. The symptoms of insomnia and other sleep disorders can be treated with various Ayurvedic methods. Some common ones include
- Herbal teas
Having an herbal tea right before bed can help calm one’s nerves and put one to sleep. Teas made from chamomile, lavender, and passionflower are all excellent choices.
- Aromatherapy
Diffusing or adding calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile to a warm bath can help one unwind and get a good night’s sleep.
- Ayurvedic herbs
Ayurveda recognizes a wide variety of herbs as effective remedies for sleeplessness. Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Shankhapushpi, Jatamansi, and Vacha are just a few of the more well-known ones. These can be taken in capsule form or as tea.
- Yoga and meditation
These are good practices to try before bed because they help relax the body and mind for a good night’s rest.
Lifestyle Changes Recommended By Ayurveda To Improve Sleep
Ayurveda may suggest several lifestyle adjustments to aid in getting a better night’s rest. These include
- Maintaining a calm, dark, and quiet bedroom devoid of electronic devices can help one sleep.
- Developing and adhering to a regular pattern of sleeping throughout the night.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods in the evening.
- Relaxing in a hot bath before bed.
- Try some yoga or meditation right before bedtime to help one unwind.
Ayurveda’s Guidelines For Diet & Nutrition
Ayurvedic medicine approaches sleep problems from several angles, including dietary and nutritional adjustments, behavioral modifications, and the use of herbal remedies. The following are some general dietary and nutritional guidelines for the treatment of sleep disorders and insomnia
- Eat fresh, whole foods that are easy to digest.
- Avoid processed foods, alcohol, artificial additives, and caffeine.
- Include a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Be sure to balance your diet with raw and cooked foods.
- Relaxing in a hot bath before bed.
- Get in eight glasses of water, fruit juice, herbal tea, soup, and stew daily.
Yoga Poses & Pranayama Techniques To Promote Restful Sleep
Pranayama and yoga are two ayurvedic practices that can help with sleeplessness. Several yoga postures and breathing exercises (called pranayama) have been shown to aid in deep, rejuvenating sleep. Here are some of the most effective
- Child’s pose
This pose is excellent for relieving stress and anxiety while stretching the hips and lower back.
- Corpse pose
This very calming pose helps to relax the mind and body.
- Legs up the wall pose
This simple but effective pose helps to relieve tension in the legs and lower back and can also help to calm the mind.
- Breath of fire
This powerful pranayama technique helps to energize and detoxify the body and promote deep breathing, which is calming and relaxing.
- Alternate nostril breathing
It is an effective pranayama method for easing into slumber because it promotes a state of calm and relaxation by balancing the activity in the brain’s left and right hemispheres.
Herbal Formulations Used In Treating Sleep Disorders
Many herbal formulations can be used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders, each with its unique set of benefits. Some of the most commonly used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine for treating sleep disorders include
- Ashwagandha
This medicinal plant has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its sedative effects. Stress and anxiety contribute to a lack of sleep, so it is frequently used to alleviate those conditions.
- Brahmi
Another herb with calming properties, Brahmi can be helpful in the treatment of sleep disorders. It is recommended for those who want to enhance their sleep quality and mental capacity because of its purported ability to enhance memory and cognitive function.
- Shankhapushpi
Shankhapushpi is an herb traditionally used as a natural sedative. If you have insomnia, this may be the solution you’ve been looking for because it can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
In Conclusion
Ayurveda is a great way to treat insomnia and sleep disorders naturally. It can aid in reestablishing equilibrium, decreasing stress and anxiety, enhancing digestion, normalizing hormone levels, and altering behaviors that may contribute to poor sleep. In addition, ayurvedic treatments, such as herbal remedies or dietary adjustments, can help you get back to a healthy sleep schedule in no time. So, give it a try today!
