Ayurvedic Tips for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder -PTSD

POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER -PTSD Ayurvedic Tips

Post-traumatic stress disorder is diagnosed based on signs and symptoms and a thorough psychological evaluation. A specific criteria for PTSD is provided in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association – for standardized testing worldwide.¹

Diet Recommendations (Aahar)

• Diet vastly affects the agni, tridoshas and the manas (mind). A wholesome healthy diet is essential for mental health and happiness.

• Use of milk, ghee, sweet dish etc influences the Pravar Satva (Higher mental equilibrium). Madhur rasa and amla rasa strength the indriya & positively influences the satva (positive state of mind).

Lifestyle changes (Vihar)

• Achar rasayan (Good behavior and lifestyle) too influences the Pravar Satva (Higher mental equilibrium).
• Yogasanas as exercise regimen are shown to be efficacious and helpful in reduction or management of stress.

Some asanas that are helpful are as follows-

• Shavasana:

Savasana has a regenerative effect on the mind and the body. It provides relief from any kind of stress and strain in few minutes. It is a good activity for managing restlessness, insecurity, frustration, anxiety, and fear.³

• Bhramari Pranayama

Paroxysmal gamma waves produced in brain during the Bhramari Pranayama which is associated with positive thoughts, feelings of happiness and acts as a natural antidepressant.