Mainstream medicine tends to view anxiety and depression as quite separate medical disorders, even though it is recognised that depressed people often suffer from anxiety. There are therefore different anxiety treatment and depression treatment, often involving prescribed drugs, for the two conditions.

Ayurveda looks at the situation quite differently. The Ayurvedic view is that anxiety precedes depression.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is initially a perfectly normal reaction to stress. It is only when it becomes excessive that it can lead to a variety of different physical symptoms. Anxiety symptoms can include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, increased sweating, panic and even a panic attack. Long term anxiety leads to excess Vata, and if the problem is not resolved emotions eventually go out of control. As Vata takes over there is excess heat in the body.

When anxiety persists for too long, air in the body starts to flow downwards and the metabolism begins to be impaired. This is symptomatic of excess Kapha – a state of stagnation which causes the body to become cold and unresponsive to normal situations. Depression sets in. In deep depression people start to cry; this has the effect of bringing air to the brain.

While  Ayurvedic anxiety treatment primarily involves decreasing Vata, in treatment for depression there is a need to increase Pitta so as to boost the mitochondrial function, as well as decreasing Kapha. In either case the focus will be on the restoration of balance to mind, body and spirit, and to this end Ayurvedic treatment frequently prescribes yoga, breathing and meditation exercises and addresses lifestyle practices, in addition to supplying appropriate herbal medicines.

If you need help with either anxiety treatment or depression treatment call us at 1300552260 the Yatan Holistic Ayurvedic Centre to book a consultation.