Are You A Hair-Puller? – Help Is At Hand

Trichotillomania is the medical term for hair pulling, which recent estimates claim affects about 1.5% of men and 3.4% of women worldwide. It is considered to be an impulse-control disorder, and can vary from localised fiddling to actually pulling hair out from different parts of the body.

It is sometimes carried out consciously, but often the person doing it is unaware of the fact and one can frequently notice that it appears to improve concentration and balance. One long-term client at the clinic tugs gently while engaged in conversation at a single area around the back right of the head – the area above the parietal lobe. This part of the brain is now understood to be responsible for recording sensory information from various parts of the body. She has no idea why she does this, but it clearly improves the clarity and flow of her thought processes. In many people the habit seems to be associated with an old bad memory, which the mind replays relentlessly, or with some kind of emotional stress. Whether the activity is conscious or unconscious, and whatever is the underlying cause, what is certain is that many would like to be free of trichotillomania.

Auto-suggestion or affirmation is one excellent way to address hair pulling disorder. The subconscious mind can be asked what the problem is. If this is done nightly – eleven rounds before going to sleep – the answer will usually come within a maximum of three months. Emotional freedom will be felt and many problems can be resolved in this way. This effect can be assisted by hypnosis: a technique which can be easily mastered. Another similar approach to trichotillomania treatment is through meditation, when the mind is in a relaxed and therefore more approachable state.

Ayurveda has some wonderful medicines to help treat trichotillomania. Brahmi, a potent nerve tonic, opens the brain channels and relieves anxiety and stress, and Jatamansi imparts a sense of mental calm and peace within 41 days to 3 months. Freedom is soon experienced and relationships are seen to benefit.

Ujjayi Pranayama, the powerful Ayurvedic breathing technique, is incredibly effective in calming the mind and if practised for 41 days, will enable the user to cross the barrier with ease. It is often used in conjunction with meditation. Full instructions are given in my book, Yatan Yoga, available from our website.

You have the innate ability to change; Ayurveda has the tools to help. Call Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre on 1300 552 260 for a free 10 minute consultation