Balance beyond body: Ayurveda’s Take on Mental Clarity and Mood.
Few years back, I came across a young patient with compliant of longstanding diarrhea. I examined the patient, took a detailed history about his dietary habits and routine- which was a healthy lifestyle. I could not find any reason for his symptoms, hence, just gave him symptomatic treatment and sent him home. I could not sleep that night as I knew there was some glitch which I was unable to recognize. All the reports were normal which he had done with his previous doctor. I sat and opened one of the ayurvedic text books “ opened the chapter of “ atisar (diarrhea)” where I found the answer. Amongst the types of “atisar”, one is “bhayaja atisar” that is diarrhea- caused due to being frightened. While taking history we got to know that he was preparing for his entrance exams for IIT and he was very sensitive person. I called him for check up again. I dug deeper I found out that he had immense pressure on him from his father, which haunted him like crazy. He used to have nightmares about exams and so much so that it disturbed his sleep cycle. I called in the parents, counselled them, changed the line of treatment – this time – I used all antidepressants medicines – discontinued symptomatic drugs- and arranged counselling session for him. Within few weeks of counselling and medicines, he was all cured, finally. A good mental health made it easier for him to study well and he also got the admission!!
(Sushrut sharissthan 1.16) While giving definition of “Purusa” i.e. body Sushrut states “ Purusa is combination of panchamabhuta and soul. To treat the body we cannot ignore soul along with tangible body.
Just like this, “Mann” i.e. mind/ soul – has been mentioned in many theories of ayurveda. (Charak sutrasthan 30) soul abides in heart i.e.– isn’t it just beautiful? It is considered as an actual entity while treating any disease. No reports from laboratory can show this. This is the beauty of ayurveda.
The impact mental health and mood can have on the body is immeasurable and considering it in every diagnosis is something which we cannot miss on to.
Meditation, counselling and regular exercises are few modern-day practices which helps relives stress. But, ayurveda takes one step ahead by mentioning internal medicines such as brahmi (Centella Asiatica), jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamasi), shankhapuspi (convovulus prostrates), ghruta (ghee) and Therapies such as shirodhara, abhyanga (massage), nasya which improves mental health, depression and increases focus.
Right use of these drugs and inculcating these therapies help us boost the results in patients of depression, anxiety and soothes the brain. These are not just mere medicines but works as therapy for the patients.
Year is about to end and as cliché as it may sound “new year and new beginnings” still it gives us the same intensity of new hopes and excitement each year. It is just self-love, which is the greatest gift anyone can give to oneself and mental heath is the very first step towards it. Let us take one step towards a good mind this year with the gift of ayurveda!
✨ About the Author – Dr Diksha Gawande
Dr Diksha Gawande is an Ayurvedic Physician and Lifestyle Consultant, and the founder of Metta Ayurved, Pune.
With over a decade of practice, she blends ancient Ayurvedic science with modern lifestyle insights to promote natural healing.
Her work focuses on Panchakarma, holistic immunity, and preventive wellness.
Dr Diksha believes that mindful living and authentic Ayurvedic practices can help modern minds rediscover true balance.
🔗 Connect with her on LinkedIn
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