• Know about the core concept of Tridoshas and link with Mental Health. Which are Key Mental Disorders? Using examples tells how to balance Doshas for mental clarity. Ayurvedic remedies which promote neurotransmitters that impact mental health.  

In today's fast-paced world, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda shines as a source of hope and tranquillity. Ayurveda takes a comprehensive approach that not only addresses physical health but also delves deep into the mind-body connection, offering profound insights into maintaining mental equilibrium. 

Let us explore how this traditional science can guide us in our pursuit of mental well-being.

The Timeless Appeal of Ayurveda

Imagine waking up to a serene morning, the gentle chirping of birds, and the soothing aroma of herbs wafting through the air. This is the essence of Ayurveda—a harmonious balance of mind, body, and spirit. Ayurveda, the "science of life," is a 5,000-year-old natural healing system rooted in India's Vedic culture. Its integrated approach aims to create harmony between the body and the environment, ensuring a balanced state of health.

The Core Concepts: Tridosha and Mental Health

At the heart of Ayurveda is the Tridosha concept—the three fundamental energies known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha governs specific physiological and psychological functions in the body.

Vata (Ether and Air): Creativity, flexibility, and enthusiasm are its hallmarks. However, an imbalance can lead to anxiety and fear.

Pitta (Fire and Water): Associated with intelligence, courage, and determination. Its imbalance often results in anger and irritability.

Kapha (Water and Earth): Stability, calmness, and strength define Kapha. When imbalanced, it can cause lethargy and depression.

Ayurveda believes that the balance of these doshas influences mental health. Understanding our unique doshic composition allows us to tailor our lifestyle and dietary choices to maintain mental harmony.

Real-Life Example: Balancing the Doshas for Mental Clarity

Consider Anjali, a 35-year-old marketing professional who constantly juggles deadlines and meetings. She often finds herself stressed and anxious, indicative of a Vata imbalance.

By integrating Ayurvedic practices such as a Vata-pacifying diet (warm, cooked foods), regular Abhyanga (oil massage), and grounding yoga practices, Anjali experienced a noticeable improvement in her mental clarity and emotional stability.

The Role of Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas

Ayurveda categorises the mind into three qualities or Gunas: Sattva (purity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (inertia).

Sattva represents clarity, wisdom, and harmony. A Sattvic mind is calm, peaceful, and focused.

Rajas signifies energy and movement, often leading to restlessness and hyperactivity.

Tamas indicates darkness and confusion, resulting in lethargy and depression.

Ayurveda aims to increase Sattva while balancing Rajas and Tamas through proper diet, lifestyle, and meditation.

Unmad, Apasmar, and Attatva Abhinivesha: Key Mental Disorders

Ayurveda provides a detailed classification of mental disorders, with a significant focus on conditions like Unmad (Insanity/Psychosis), Apasmar (Epilepsy), and Attatva Abhinivesha (Delusion).

1. Unmad: This disorder is akin to modern-day psychosis, characterised by disturbances in intellect, behaviour, memory, actions, and character. Individuals with Unmad experience delusions, hallucinations, and significant alterations in perception.

Example: Ravi, a 40-year-old man, starts believing he is a historical figure and exhibits erratic behaviour. Ayurvedic treatment includes herbs like Brahmi and Shankhapushpi and therapies like Shirodhara help calm the mind.

2. Apasmar: Known as epilepsy, Apasmar is marked by sudden loss of consciousness, convulsions, and abnormal motor activities. It is often linked to a tamasic imbalance.

Example: Meera, a young girl, experiences recurrent seizures. Ayurvedic treatment balances Tamas through dietary changes, herbal remedies like Vacha, and therapies like Nasya (nasal medication).

3. Attatva Abhinivesha: This condition involves delusional thinking and a distorted perception of reality, often resulting from a disturbed mind dominated by Rajas and Tamas.

Example: Vikram, convinced of an impending catastrophe, isolates himself and exhibits paranoid behaviour. Ayurvedic interventions include a Sattvic diet, mindfulness practices, and herbs like Ashwagandha to restore balance.

Modern Perspective: Neurotransmitters and Hormones

Modern science acknowledges the profound impact of neurotransmitters and hormones on mental health. Key players include Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, Endorphins, and Melatonin.

Dopamine: Known as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, it plays a significant role in pleasure and reward mechanisms. An imbalance can lead to conditions like depression and Parkinson’s disease.

Ayurvedic Remedy: Herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi can enhance dopamine levels, promoting well-being and motivation.

Oxytocin: Often called the "love hormone," it is crucial for social bonding and trust. Low levels can contribute to social anxiety and depression.

Ayurvedic Remedy: Abhyanga (oil massage) and meditation can naturally boost oxytocin levels, enhancing social connections and reducing stress.

Serotonin: This neurotransmitter regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Imbalances are linked to depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

Ayurvedic Remedy: A Sattvic diet rich in tryptophan (precursor to serotonin) and herbs like Shankhapushpi and Jatamansi can help maintain optimal serotonin levels.

Endorphins: These are natural painkillers and mood elevators. Low endorphin levels can result in chronic pain and emotional distress.

Ayurvedic Remedy: Regular physical exercise, yoga, and pranayama (breathing exercises) stimulate endorphin production, reducing pain and enhancing mood.

Melatonin: The sleep hormone crucial for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Imbalance can lead to sleep disorders like insomnia.

Ayurvedic Remedy: Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi and practices like Shirodhara help regulate melatonin levels, promoting restful sleep.

Ayurvedic Treatments: A Comprehensive Approach

Ayurvedic treatments encompass dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and therapeutic practices.

Dietary Adjustments: Emphasis on a Sattvic diet rich in fresh, organic, and wholesome foods that promote mental clarity.

Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating daily routines (Dinacharya) and seasonal regimens (Ritucharya) to align with natural rhythms.

Herbal Remedies: Use herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Jatamansi to support mental health.

Therapeutic Practices: Techniques like Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the

Counselling plays a significant role alongside medicinal and therapeutic support. Sometimes, even without medicine, it works miraculously. There is a need to create awareness that psychological disorders should be accepted and to spread the message of seeking help promptly.

Embrace the Ancient Wisdom

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda offers a sanctuary of balance and tranquillity. By embracing Ayurvedic principles, we can cultivate mental resilience, clarity, and peace, paving the way for a harmonious and fulfilling life. Let us embark on this journey towards holistic well-being, guided by the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda.

Integrating these Ayurvedic insights into our daily lives can foster a balanced and healthy mind, ensuring a brighter and more harmonious future. Let the wisdom of Ayurveda be your guide in achieving mental well-being and holistic health.

Disclaimer: The treatment suggested in this document is general. For personalized advice, consult your doctor.

Author Dr Nutan   is B.A.M.S, MSc in Yoga, Qualified Assistant Professor & Counsellor. She is Founder and director of Dr. Nutan’s Ayurveda Yoga Garbhasanskar Academy, Mumbai. She has designed and conducts teachers training course on Prenatal Postnatal Yoga and Garbhasanskar.

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