Stress: How can we soothe?

Usually what we tend to do under stress is compensate with substances, like drinking alcohol, over eating, over working or the mind just over thinks and this causes lack of sleep. We know deep down there has to be better ways to soothe our nervous system. The stress we feel is usually caused by our external environment, here are some of the things that could be stressing you out; romantic relationships, financial struggles, body image, social injustice, war, family dynamics, etc you get the point. Maybe you need some more tools in your toolkit to soothe your stress.

Here are some techniques for each dosha but could also be used for all doshas depending on the season.

For the Vata dosha you might need to slow down. One tip I love to tell the Vata folks is to lay down on the floor for five minutes with a weighted blanket on top of the body. The simplicity of stillness alongside the sensation of feeling held will ground the overstimulated and constant movement of Vata. A great adaptogen for Vata is Ashwaghanda, it is used in all conditions of weakness, those suffering from overwork, lack of sleep or nervous exhaustion. You can prepare an Ashwagandha latte by warming milk or non dairy milk with 1/2 tsp of Ashwagandha powder and 1 tsp of honey. It is one of the best herbs for the mind for its nurturing and clarifying qualities.

Pitta dosha could try drinking herbal tea like chamomile or tulsi in the afternoon instead of a second cup of coffee. Pitta dosha would also benefit from daily meditation. Also adding self massage with brahmi oil on soles of the feet and scalp before bed.

Kapha dosha let yourself cry, let yourself laugh, these are both good medicine for releasing tension. Also getting outside in nature and exercise, walking, running, dancing, swimming.

All of these things can be great tools to relieve stress, grab a friend and try one of these soothing techniques!