Joanna James
As insomnia and lack of quality sleep have become a common struggle, perhaps it is time to look beyond medical interventions and adopt a holistic approach to facilitate a good night’s rest. Here are some time-tested therapies from Ayurveda you can use to tackle irregular sleep habits head-on.
There’s nothing like a soothing massage with warm herbal oil to help restore balance to your aching muscles and nerves. As a key treatment modality for a host of ailments Ayurvedic therapies have been employing massage to promote better rest for centuries. While a trained ayurvedic masseuse may have the expertise to perform a deep-tissue massage such as a Samavahana treatment or a scalp massage, it is possible to receive the benefits of these massage sessions at home by self-massaging (Abhyanga) key areas such as the feet and head. Although coconut oil that’s infused with herbs will do the trick those who can use calming essential oils such as sandalwood and lavender will find that these oils are even more effective in the long run.
Although Nasya treatments are usually reserved for dealing with phlegm and blockages in the nasal passage, this ancient therapy can also do wonders for improving the quality of rest and sleep. As Nasya therapies target the Vata dosha or air imbalances that can cause insomnia, even applying a few drops of Anu or Brahmi oil before bed can provide instant results. The psychological benefits of Nasya rituals have also been well-documented as it is credited with improving mental clarity.
Called Ikshu in Ayurvedic medical texts, sugarcane is an ingredient that’s used in countless remedies for a plethora of health issues. Those who have been suffering from chronic insomnia will find that tryptophan found in sugarcane produces serotonin and thus reduces the stress hormone known as Cortisol in their systems. This is why those who take sugarcane before bed are more likely to enjoy a good night’s sleep as the mood-boosting neurotransmitter clears away negative thoughts and stressors.
While health journals and physicians discourage drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks before bed, there are other beverages that can assist those dealing with intermittent insomnia with their healing properties. Warm herbal teas whether it’s a cup of chamomile tea or Brahmi tea or infusions made with Atamans, Ashwagandha relaxes both body and mind by decreasing Cortisol and other hormones that cause anxiety.
While there’s no reason to overhaul your regular nutritional plan to enjoy a good night’s rest, there are certain foods that you can easily add to your diet that can make a big difference in the quality of sleep you get. Grapes which are called Draksha in Ayurvedic handbooks are rich in antioxidants and melatonin. Although those experiencing jet lag tend to ingest melatonin in pill form, it is far more beneficial to eat a bowl of grapes before going to sleep as the fruit also contains resveratrol and carotenoid. Oatmeal, rice, cherries and bananas are also famed for their deep sleep-inducing powers.
Performing deep breathing exercises and meditating, even for five minutes can also help calm the nervous system and prepare the mind and body for sleep. Those who are fans of aromatherapy candles and using essential oils can also use a sleep therapy pillow mist and similar sleep-promoting products by Ayurvedic personal care brands such as Spa Ceylon Sri Lanka when travelling or at home.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
