DR TAMLYN GOVENDER

IN TODAY’S hyper-connected world, mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and burnout have become increasingly common. The constant influx of information, social media notifications, and the pressure to stay digitally connected can overwhelm the mind, leaving little room for rest and rejuvenation.

Ayurveda, the ancient holistic healing system, offers profound insights and natural remedies to support mental well-being. By incorporating Ayurvedic principles, mental detox practises, and mindful habits, we can restore balance to our minds and bodies.

The importance of a mental detox

Mental detoxing involves clearing the mind of clutter, stress, and negativity, much like how we detox our bodies. In Ayurveda, mental health is deeply connected to the balance of the three doshas - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. When the mind is overstimulated, particularly by excessive screen time and social media, it can aggravate Vata (the air and space element), leading to anxiety, restlessness, and mental fatigue.

Giving your mind a break from digital devices is essential for a mental detox and overall well-being.

Unplug from social media: constant exposure to social media and digital devices can overstimulate the mind, leading to information overload and heightened stress levels. Set aside dedicated time each day to disconnect from screens. This allows the mind to rest, recharge, and process emotions more effectively. Try implementing a "digital sunset" by turning off devices at least an hour before bedtime to promote better sleep and mental clarity. Also, avoid reaching for the phone as soon as you wake up. Create healthy habits in the morning by creating a space and time for self-reflection.

Practice mindfulness and meditation: meditation is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic mental health practices. It helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve focus. Techniques such as Pranayama (yogic breathing) and mindfulness meditation can help regulate the nervous system and bring the mind back to a calm state. Even 10 to 15 minutes of daily meditation can have a profound impact on mental clarity and emotional resilience.

Create time for prayer: This is a time when you can connect to a higher power or your higher self. Prayer has been shown to reduce stress, create optimism, as well as promote feelings of peace and purpose. Use prayer as a way to express gratitude as this can help improve your mood, releasing those feel-good hormones that your body naturally creates.

Journalling for emotional release: Journalling is a powerful tool for a mental detox. Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can help you process emotions, release pent-up stress, and gain clarity. Journalling involves writing with a focus on positivity, gratitude, and self-reflection. This practice not only helps in emotional release but also cultivates a sense of inner peace and self-awareness.

Ayurvedic remedies for mental health

Ayurveda offers a range of natural remedies and practices to support mental health. These include the use of adaptogenic herbs, self-care rituals, and lifestyle adjustments.

Ashwagandha: known as the "king of Ayurvedic herbs," Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that helps the body and mind adapt to stress. It reduces cortisol levels, promotes relaxation, and supports emotional balance. Incorporating Ashwagandha into your daily routine, either as a supplement or in powdered form, can help alleviate anxiety, reduce cortisol levels, and improve mental clarity.

Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri): brahmi is renowned for its ability to enhance cognitive function, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity. It works by calming the mind and supporting the nervous system. Brahmi can be consumed as a tea, supplement, or in oil form for scalp massage, which also helps soothe the mind.

Abhyanga (Self-Massage): the Ayurvedic practice of abhyanga, or self-massage with warm herbal oils, is a deeply relaxing ritual that calms the mind and nourishes the body. Using oils such as Brahmi or Ksheerbala can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and promote emotional well-being.

Nasya therapy: nasya, the practice of administering medicated oils or herbal preparations through the nasal passages, is a powerful Ayurvedic treatment for mental health. It helps clear the mind, improve focus, and balance the nervous system. Nasya is particularly effective for relieving stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue.

The role of lifestyle in mental detox

Ayurveda emphasises the importance of a balanced lifestyle in maintaining mental health. Simple yet effective practices can make a significant difference in improving your mental health:

– Establish a daily routine (Dinacharya): following a consistent daily routine helps create stability and balance in life. Wake up early, practice meditation or yoga, and set aside time for self-care. A structured routine reduces mental chaos and promotes a sense of calm.

Spend time in nature: Connecting with nature is a powerful way to detox the mind. Ayurveda encourages spending time outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park, gardening, or simply sitting under a tree. Nature has a grounding effect that helps calm the mind and reduce stress.

Prioritise sleep: Quality sleep is essential for a mental detox and overall health. Ayurveda recommends going to bed early and waking up with the sunrise to align with the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Avoid stimulating activities before bedtime and create a calming evening routine to promote restful sleep.

The Role of TRE in mental health

Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) is a powerful self-help technique designed to release deep-seated stress and trauma from the body. Through a series of gentle exercises, TRE activates the body’s natural tremor mechanism, allowing the nervous system to discharge stored tension and stress.

This process helps calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional balance. TRE is particularly beneficial for those dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, or emotional trauma, as it helps regulate the body’s stress response and fosters a sense of relaxation and resilience. Incorporating TRE into your routine can be a transformative step toward achieving long-term mental and emotional well-being.

A mental detox is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Ayurveda reminds us that true mental health comes from nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Take the first step toward a mental detox today and experience the transformative power of Ayurveda in restoring balance and vitality to your life.

Dr Tamlyn Govender is registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa to practise Ayurveda. Her Ayurvedic practice is in Pretoria East. Visit www.ayuhealthandwellness.com, or email info@ayuhealthandwellness.com. To learn more or to get more health tips, follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube @ ayuhealthandwellness.

- Please consult a healthcare professional before taking any of these recommendations. Although these are all natural remedies, they have side effects if not taken properly. To book a consultation, please visit www. ayuhealthandwellness.com

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