Tag: Abhyanga

Nurturing Mind and Body: Ayurveda’s Approach to Mental Health

by Michelle Berry, posted in Uncategorized

In the pursuit of holistic well-being, mental health plays a pivotal role, influencing our overall quality of life and sense of fulfillment. While modern approaches to mental health often focus on symptom management, Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine from India, offers a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of mental imbalances. In this blog post, we’ll explore Ayurveda’s unique perspective on mental health and delve into its holistic practices and remedies for nurturing a healthy mind and body.

Understanding Mental Health in Ayurveda: In Ayurveda, mental health is intricately connected to the balance of the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—as well as the harmony between mind, body, and spirit. Mental imbalances are viewed as manifestations of doshic disturbances, caused by factors such as improper diet, lifestyle habits, stress, trauma, and environmental influences. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining equilibrium in the doshas, as well as promoting Sattva (clarity and balance), for optimal mental health and emotional well-being.

Ayurvedic Practices for Mental Health:

  1. Dinacharya (Daily Routine):
    • Establishing a daily routine aligned with natural rhythms helps regulate the doshas and promote mental balance.
    • Wake up early, engage in gentle exercise or yoga, meditate, eat nourishing meals at regular times, and prioritize restful sleep.
  2. Sattvic Diet:
    • A Sattvic diet, consisting of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy products, supports mental clarity and emotional balance.
    • Avoid processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, and heavy or spicy meals, which can disturb the doshic equilibrium and contribute to mental agitation.
  3. Yoga and Meditation:
    • Yoga asanas (poses) and pranayama (breathwork) help calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote inner harmony.
    • Meditation practices, such as mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and loving-kindness meditation, cultivate awareness, presence, and emotional resilience.
  4. Ayurvedic Herbs and Formulations:
    • Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi (Gotu Kola), and Jatamansi help mitigate stress, support cognitive function, and balance the nervous system.
    • Ayurvedic formulations like Saraswatarishta, Brahmi Ghrita, and Shankhpushpi Syrup nourish the brain, enhance memory, and promote mental clarity.
  5. Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Self-Massage):
    • Regular self-massage with warm herbal oils, such as sesame or coconut oil, calms the nervous system, reduces stress, and promotes relaxation.
  6. Practices for Emotional Cleansing:
    • Emotional release techniques like journaling, art therapy, and counseling help process and release suppressed emotions, promoting mental and emotional well-being.

Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to mental health that recognizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. By integrating Ayurvedic practices, dietary guidelines, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications into our daily lives, we can cultivate resilience, balance, and vitality on all levels. Embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda, nurture your mental health, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being.

Ayurvedic Insights on Grief

by Michelle Berry, posted in Abhyanga, Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Men's Health, Women's Health

Ayurvedic Insights on Grief Nurturing the Soul Through Ayurvedic Wisdom

In Ayurveda, grief is not just an emotional experience; it is recognized as a disturbance in the balance of the doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha – which govern the physiological and psychological functions of the body. When grief arises, it can disrupt these doshic balances, leading to physical and mental imbalances if left unaddressed. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I’ve witnessed how Ayurveda offers profound insights and remedies for navigating through grief, allowing individuals to heal and find solace.

Understanding Grief through the Lens of Ayurveda

Ayurveda views grief as a natural response to loss, whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any significant change or transition in life. According to Ayurveda, grief primarily affects the Vata dosha, which governs movement, communication, and the nervous system. When Vata becomes imbalanced due to grief, it can manifest as anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, and difficulty processing emotions.

Balancing Vata During Times of Grief

To address Vata imbalance caused by grief, Ayurveda recommends gentle and grounding practices that soothe the nervous system and promote emotional stability. This includes:

  1. Nourishing Foods: Consuming warm, cooked meals with grounding spices such as ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon can pacify Vata and provide comfort during times of grief. Avoiding cold, raw, and processed foods is advised as they can aggravate Vata further.
  2. Herbal Support: Ayurvedic herbs like ashwagandha, brahmi, and shatavari are known for their calming and rejuvenating properties. These herbs can help alleviate anxiety, promote relaxation, and support the body’s ability to cope with stress and grief.
  3. Abhyanga (Self-Massage): Massaging the body with warm sesame or coconut oil can help calm the nervous system, improve circulation, and provide a sense of grounding and comfort. Incorporating this practice into daily routine can be particularly beneficial during times of grief.
  4. Yoga and Pranayama: Gentle yoga postures and breathing exercises can help release tension from the body, quiet the mind, and promote emotional well-being. Practices like restorative yoga, gentle stretching, and alternate nostril breathing can be especially supportive during periods of grief.
  5. Mindfulness and Meditation: Cultivating mindfulness through meditation, journaling, or simple awareness practices can help individuals process their emotions, gain clarity, and find inner peace amidst grief. Taking time for quiet reflection and self-care is essential for healing.

Honoring the Ayurvedic Approach to Healing Grief

Ayurveda teaches us that healing is a holistic process that encompasses the body, mind, and spirit. While grief can be a challenging and painful experience, it also presents an opportunity for growth, transformation, and deepening our connection to ourselves and others. By embracing Ayurvedic principles and practices, individuals can navigate through grief with grace, resilience, and compassion, ultimately finding a path to healing and wholeness.

As an Ayurvedic doctor, I am committed to supporting individuals on their healing journey and offering guidance, wisdom, and remedies rooted in the ancient tradition of Ayurveda. May we all find solace and strength as we navigate the inevitable ebbs and flows of life, honoring the wisdom of Ayurveda and the resilience of the human spirit.

Ayurveda recognizes grief as a disruption in the body's doshic balance, particularly affecting the Vata dosha. To address this imbalance, Ayurveda recommends nourishing foods, herbal support, self-massage, yoga, pranayama, and mindfulness practices. Embracing Ayurvedic principles can help individuals navigate grief with grace and compassion, ultimately finding a path to healing and wholeness.

Ayurvedic Tools for Self Care

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Men's Health, Stress Management, Women's Health

Self-care is an integral part of our daily routine, and it plays a vital role in maintaining our physical and emotional well-being. In Ayurveda, self-care is not only about taking care of oneself but also about living in harmony with nature and the environment. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and offers many tools and techniques that we can use to take care of ourselves.

  1. Abhyanga:

Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic self-massage technique that involves massaging warm oil into the skin. Abhyanga helps to improve blood circulation, soothe the nervous system, and nourish the skin. To perform Abhyanga, warm some oil, and massage it into your skin, starting from your feet and working your way up towards the head. Leave the oil on for 15-20 minutes before taking a warm shower.

  1. Neti Pot:

The Neti Pot is an Ayurvedic tool used to cleanse the nasal passages. It helps to remove excess mucus and dirt from the nose and sinuses, which can cause allergies and other respiratory problems. To use the Neti Pot, mix some salt in warm water and fill the pot with it. Tilt your head to one side, and gently pour the water into one nostril. Let the water flow out of the other nostril. Repeat on the other side.

  1. Tongue Scraper:

The tongue scraper is an Ayurvedic tool that is used to remove bacteria, toxins, and residue from the tongue. It helps to improve digestion, prevent bad breath, and promote overall oral health. To use the tongue scraper, hold the ends of the scraper and gently scrape your tongue from back to front.

  1. Yoga:

Yoga is a form of physical exercise that is designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. In Ayurveda, yoga is not only about physical exercise but also about balancing the mind and body. Yoga can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase overall well-being. Some of the yoga poses that you can incorporate into your routine include the Sun Salutation, Warrior Pose, and the Tree Pose.

  1. Meditation:

Meditation is an ancient practice that involves focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity. In Ayurveda, meditation is used to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. To meditate, find a quiet and comfortable place, sit cross-legged with your eyes closed, and focus on your breath. Start with 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the time.

Ayurveda offers many tools and techniques that we can use to take care of ourselves. Abhyanga, Neti Pot, tongue scraper, yoga, and meditation are just a few of the Ayurvedic tools for self-care. These tools can help to improve our physical and emotional well-being and bring us closer to nature and the environment. By incorporating these tools into our daily routine, we can achieve balance, harmony, and optimal health. So, start practicing Ayurvedic self-care today and experience the benefits for yourself.

Make an appointment with me today!

Dr. Sugesh

The Deadly Effects of Stress from the Modern Lifestyle

by Michelle Berry, posted in Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Chakras, Meditation, Stress Management, Yoga

Stress has become the norm in the modern lifestyle. Whether it’s work, family, finances, or relationships, we all deal with stress on a daily basis. Although small amounts of stress can be motivational, too much stress can have a detrimental effect on our overall well-being, leading to physical, emotional, and mental issues. During special occasions like holidays, stress levels can escalate, which is why it’s vital to learn how to recognize the signs of stress and manage them proactively. In this blog, we’ll explore how stress is the biggest killer of modern lifestyle and how Ayurveda can help alleviate stress-related symptoms.

Stress is a silent killer that weakens the immune system, making us more susceptible to physical and mental ailments. The first signs of stress are usually physical symptoms such as a headache, disturbed sleep, loss of appetite, muscle tension, or aches and pains. If left unchecked, stress can lead to elevated blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the symptoms of stress early and take preventative measures.

One effective preventative measure is through seeking consultation with a skilled Ayurvedic doctor. Dr. Sugesh is an Ayurvedic expert who can help you identify and treat the root cause of stress and provide you with personalized treatment options. So, don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re experiencing symptoms of stress as it can benefit you physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Ayurveda has many therapies that can be helpful for de-stressing. Chakra therapy involves balancing the seven chakras in the body to reduce anxiety, calm the mind, and improve overall well-being. Deep relaxation massage is a popular Ayurvedic treatment that helps relax the body and mind by increasing blood flow, reducing tension and stress. Reflexology is another form of Ayurvedic therapy where pressure is applied to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears to relieve stress and anxiety.

Aroma therapy massage is a relaxing Ayurvedic treatment that involves the use of essential oils to enhance physical and mental well-being. Yoga and meditation are considered useful for calming the mind and reducing stress. It’s recommended to practice yoga and meditation regularly to help relieve stress and rejuvenate the body and mind. Shirodhara is another Ayurvedic therapy that involves the pouring of warm herbal oils on the forehead to help calm the central nervous system, preventing stress, and calming the mind. Warm herbal wraps and marma therapy are also excellent Ayurvedic treatments for de-stressing.

Stress has become an epidemic that can have a severe impact on our physical, emotional and mental health. By using Ayurvedic therapies, we can proactively alleviate stress symptoms, and improve overall well-being. At the first signs of stress, don’t hesitate to reach out to a skilled Ayurvedic doctor like Dr. Sugesh, who can provide you with personalized treatment options. Incorporating Ayurvedic therapies into your lifestyle can help you feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and stress-free. Start practicing stress-reducing activities today to promote better health and longevity.

Rediscovering Ancient Roots: The Benefits of Abhyanga Massage

by Michelle Berry, posted in Abhyanga, Ayurveda, Ayurvedic Lifestyle, Uncategorized

In modern times, self-care is more important than ever before, and it’s no surprise that people are constantly seeking ways to relieve stress and improve overall health. One such effective solution is Abhyanga- an ancient Indian form of massage that has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. Abhyanga is commonly used in Ayurvedic therapy which is becoming increasingly popular around the world. Today, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Abhyanga, and discover why it’s a therapy that everyone must try!


Abhyanga: An Overview
Abhyanga is a type of Ayurvedic massage that involves the use of warm oils and specialized techniques to promote circulation and detoxify the body. The oil used in the massage is usually chosen based on the individual’s body type and health needs. During the massage, the oil is applied to the body using long, gentle strokes and is absorbed by the skin. This ensures that the body is receiving essential nutrients and that toxins are being removed. Abhyanga is known to provide a wide range of benefits, including faster wound healing, a stronger immune system, and a more relaxed mind.

Why Everyone Needs An Abhyanga Massage
People who lead a high-stress lifestyle, those experiencing chronic pain, or individuals who suffer from sleeping disorders can greatly benefit from an Abhyanga session. Ayurvedic massage helps with blood circulation, which releases endorphins that promote relaxation, pain relief, and a better mood overall. Moreover, Abhyanga can help in the reduction of stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine, which damage your body in the long run. Abhyanga can improve your overall physical, mental health along with nourishing your skin too.

What to Expect During an Abhyanga Massage Session
Depending on your chosen location, the massage session, generally, lasts for 60-90 minutes. Before the massage starts, Dr. Sugesh, an ayurvedic specialist, will consult with you to determine the right oil to use, based on your body type and health condition. Dr. Sugesh will also advise you on the areas of your body that need more attention. During the massage, the therapist will use their hands to apply pressure to different parts of your body while simultaneously using long, gentle strokes. The session usually ends with a warm shower/bath to cleanse your body.

Cautions to Take
Individuals with wounds, skin rashes or infections must avoid having an Abhyanga massage. If you are pregnant or menstuating, Dr. Sugesh advises that you consult your gynaecologist before getting an Abhyanga massage. Dr. Sugesh will also ask you about any allergies so that he can choose the right oil for you. Moreover, if you have undergone any surgery, it’s advisable to wait for at least 6 months before getting an Abhyanga massage.


Abhyanga is an ancient therapy with incredible benefits that has stood the test of time. Scheduling a regular Abhyanga massage session with Dr. Sugesh and his staff will ensure that you receive all the benefits, like increased circulation, toxin removal, relaxation, pain relief, and an improved mental and physical health. So, what are you waiting for? Discover the ancient roots to a modern solution to self-care!