Category: Destress

Benefits of Massage Therapy and Why Athletes Love It

Are you an athlete? Have you been struggling with intense muscle cramps and severe pain from injuries? If these are your concerns, we have just the right solution for you!

Massage therapy has come a long way over the years, from sceptics not believing its

And now massage therapy has made its way into the sports industry. Studies have found that regular massage therapy can help athletes reduce the impact of injury and further increase their recovery rate. For athletes, who are especially prone to injuries having a prevention measure is excellent for both their physiological and psychological well-being. This is why many athletic trainees gravitate more towards oil massage therapy and include it in their regime.

To get an in-depth understanding of what massage therapy really is and how it benefits your body, keep reading.

What is sports massage?

Sports massage is a form of massage that has its roots dating back to the Roman and Greek eras. Now, we see sports massage being adopted everywhere thanks to its wide range of benefits. Sports massage can help prevent the body from injuries and prepare the body for athletic training and intense workout. It has also proven to be beneficial in increasing the recovery rate from injuries. Thus, all-in-all, massage therapy is great for relieving muscle tension and should be adopted by every athlete worldwide.

Masseue is giving back massage to athelete

What is deep tissue massage?

In this massage technique, the musculoskeletal tissues are targeted which further helps with muscle strain and provide relief from sports injuries. Deep tissue massage is especially good for athletes since it is proven to provide instant relief from muscle strain caused by training and intense workout.

The unique massaging technique used in deep tissue massage is known to be excellent for releasing muscle tension and stress. Unlike regular massages, deep tissue massage incorporates the usage of slow and forceful strokes thus targeting the muscles and connective tissues in the body. Just a 30 minutes deep massage session can be extremely beneficial for you especially if you are athletic.

Deep tissue massage vs Sports massage

Now you might be wondering what is the major difference between deep tissue massage and sports massage. Well, the major difference is that deep tissue massage is designed for the whole body while sports massage is meant for specific areas that either need to be protected from an injury or are recovering from one.

Nevertheless, both massages are great for you depending on your needs and requirements. If you are looking for general relief from pain then you can opt for the deep tissue massage, however, if you want a more area-specific massage and want to get rid of the pain that has been built up over time, then sports massage will be your best bet.

Benefits of sports massage for athletes

There are tons of benefits of sports massage and few of which have been mentioned earlier. We will now look into the various benefits of sports massage and understand why it is so popular among athletes.

Reduces muscle pain

Muscle pain is one of the major concerns of every athlete. Due to intense training and regular workout regimens, muscle pain becomes extremely common among athletes. However, if not rectified on time, muscle pain can result in major discomfort and prevent you from performing well. Thus to maintain your body at its optimal level, treating muscle pain is extremely crucial.

Our specialists here at Blue Terra is well trained to provide instant relief from acute muscle pain and help you recover from those stubborn back aches and neck pains.

Masseuse is giving ankle massage to the athelete

Prevents muscle cramps

Muscle cramps are usually a result of lactic acid accumulation in the muscles that is secreted when our muscles are overworked or strained. Experiencing muscle cramps is pretty normal, however, it can result in extreme levels of pain and affect your everyday functioning.

Massage therapy is an effective way to get rid of the excess lactic acid accumulated in your muscles thus preventing muscle cramps and various other discomforts.

Improve sleep patterns

Experiencing acute pain and cramps can really affect your sleep cycle in a bad way and having a bad sleep cycle is extremely detrimental to your health. Thus, sports massage therapy can greatly reduce the impact of pain caused by muscle strain and injuries and allow you to get the good night’s sleep that you deserve.

Increases recovery rate from injuries

One of the major reasons why sports massages became so popular in the first place is their benefit in increasing the recovery rate of injuries. Now we are very well aware of the fact that athletes are extremely prone to injuries and sustaining an injury can not affect them physiologically but may even result in psychological distress, thus to prevent this, many athletes opt for sports massages so that they can recover faster from their injuries and get back to their best form as soon as possible.

Protects the body from sustaining major injuries

Earlier you saw how massage therapy can help you recover from your injuries at a faster rate, however, in addition to this, massage therapy can also help your body from being more prone to injuries. It has been found that pre-event workouts are especially beneficial to prevent one from sustaining major injuries during training or workout.

Remove toxins and build up stress from muscles

Another benefit of massage therapies is that it helps release toxins from your muscles and also provide instant relief from all the stress that has been building up in your muscles.

Here at Blue Terra, we use the best body massage oils that have been specifically designed for sports. Our wide range of body massage oils contains sesame and cinnamon oils, which are known to be active agents in releasing muscle tension, uncomfortable knots and pain. One such product that we swear by is the Devtvakadi pain relief oil by Blue Nectar which contains both of these active agents in high concentration, thus providing you with instant relief from acute muscle and joint pains.

Increase flexibility

Massage therapy is an excellent way to train your muscles. The massage technique used in sports massage is particularly good for not only providing relief from pain but also increase flexibility and enhancing muscle movement.

Maintains psychological well-being

Besides the many physical health benefits of sports massage, these massages also have several psychological benefits. Muscle and joint pain can be pretty annoying and agonizing, which will result in a bad mood and mindset, this is when sports massage therapy comes into play. With sports massage therapy you can instantly get relief from your pain. Furthermore, the calming properties in the body oils used here will help you release all your stress thus maintaining your overall psychological well-being.

Athlete is holding his knee due to pain

Precautions

While sports massages have their own sets of benefits, there are certain things you need to keep in mind before opting for massage therapy. Make sure that your therapist is a licenced massage therapist and is well aware of the procedure. Here, at Blue Terra, all our massage therapists are licensed therapists who have all the knowledge about massage and sports medicine.

For people with acute infectious disease, hernia, cancer, high blood pressure, varicose veins and other skin conditions, it is recommended to consult a physician before going ahead with sports massage.

It is also important to look into the type of injury sustained by the patient since certain types of injuries are not supposed to be handled with massage, such as fractures. Thus you must keep these mandatory precautions in mind before booking an appointment for any massage therapy.

Side effects

There are a lot of doubts and concerns regarding sports massages and massages in general and we are here to debunk them all. Massage therapy is an age-old practice and it has been a part of our culture for centuries. Massage therapies are extremely safe and if implemented properly, they can be a life-changing regimen for all.

The bottom line

Sports massage or deep tissue massage have their own sets of benefits and can be extremely good for all the athletes out there. However, these massages are not only restricted to athletes or sportspersons. Anybody who is suffering from muscle pain or cramps can opt for these massages as they have been designed to provide relief from pain.

Regardless of whichever massage you go for, make sure you keep in mind all the precautionary measures and make sure to go to a professional massage therapist who will cater to your needs.

Relaxing Self-Care Body Massage Ritual |Top 8 Body Massage Oils

The hustle culture has been around for a while and most people we know are running around, trying to do it all and get it all. Taking a break is normalized, but the internet makes sure we can’t chill even while taking a break. All this takes a toll on our physical health and pushes us towards a slow burnout. Little things like pursuing a hobby, taking a vacation, getting massages etc. can go a long way in helping us stay sane and relaxed. While other recreational activities may take more time than you can afford, body massages are a great way of relaxing your mind and giving yourself the self-care you need! As relaxing as these massages are, they also stimulate your nervous system and release the tension your body carries. Various body massage oils can elevate your experience and destress your mind.    

 

Benefits of A Body Massage

Body massages to an adult are the equivalent of children having ice cream. It is a great way to relax and prepare the body and the mind for work that is due next week. Sometimes, when you can not slip away for a weekend, a spa day can help you immensely. The atmosphere of the spa, the aroma of the body massage oils and the pressure applied by the masseuse act together to calm your nerves.

Relieves pain

Body massages are a great way of relieving pain that comes from improper posture and a hectic lifestyle. Slouching in chairs, standing for long hours, and prolonged screen time is likely to cause a headache, and pain in the neck, back and legs. Long hours at work may cause excessive body aches. A good body massage includes applying pressure on the body which helps comfort the pain. The pressure helps the blood flow better, and the warmth of the oils coupled with body heat relaxes the pain. Using a soothing body massage oil to massage the body on a weekend is all you need to recuperate from that pain and get back to the grind.

Relieves stress

Hectic days at work cause a lot of stress and spa commercials always portray people lying peacefully, with their eyes closed. The body massage oils they use are relaxing and a great way to destress. Corporate retreats often offer spa weekends to employees, as a way to unwind and relax, because the employees feel rejuvenated after massages and are able to focus on work more efficiently than before.

Relaxes nervous system

Body massages relax the body and release the tension caused by excessive working hours. The strained nerves and muscles relax when pressure is applied to them. Body massages are known to induce the production of endorphins, also known as happy hormones. An increase in endorphin levels makes people feel good. A relaxed nervous system ensures a decrease in corticosteroids (stress hormones) and helps you relax. A body massage oil containing ashwagandha is known to be great for the nervous system.

Detoxifies lymphatic system

Body massages are a great source of detoxifying the lymphatic system. Lymphatic vessels present in the body with lymph nodes are meant to filter out waste and dead cells. If the lymph flow is slacking, the vessels retain fluid which can be very uncomfortable, especially around the neck, back and groin. Body massages intend to help people with sore muscles by increasing the blood flow throughout the body which in turn helps drain the retained fluid and relax the body to a great extent.

Improves blood circulation

Body massages help relax the muscles and thereby aid in improving blood circulation in the body. The soft tissues of the body, when stimulated, release toxins through blood and lymph nodes. This is known to significantly lower fatigue and make a person feel like they have control over the pain that they experience. The improved blood circulation ensures that the bones and the organs function better.

Helps with insomnia

Body messages provide relief from pain and stress. Often, people tend to fall asleep while receiving a massage. The pressure applied to affected areas releases the knots of tension that are created due to the unhealthy lifestyle we lead and lowers stress. The body slips into a state of relaxation as the nervous system is awakened. People with lower stress levels and a relaxed mind are less likely to develop insomnia as compared to those with higher stress levels and tense minds.

Relaxes the body

Think of the body as a machine, for example, a car that moves around and does things. It needs fuel in the form of food and rests in the form of sleep. A car is serviced every once in a while, for better performance. Body massages, when accompanied by body massage oils, act as the servicing of the machine that our body is.

 

Top 8 Body Massage Oils

Body massages without a good body massage oil are like lemonade without sugar. These oils are often enriched with herbs/components that particularly help the body. Before you go search for the best body massage oil for yourself, we have here a carefully curated list of 8 exceptional body massage oils, so you can pick the one that matches your requirements.

Avocado Stress Relief Body Massage Oil by Biotique

An oil specially formulated for body massages, it is a blend of various oils and other natural ingredients like dandelion extracts, avocado, etc. It claims to relax muscles and relieve the body from tension and fatigue. It is also claimed that this body massage oil benefits you with good sleep when you apply it to the soles of your feet at night.

Chief ingredients

  • Almond Oil- It is a great moisturizer which gives a glow to the skin while lightening dark spots.
  • Camphor Oil- It is known to be a great muscle relaxant that has antiseptic properties. It is also known to have sedative properties that provide better sleep.
  • Neem Oil- Neem is a magical ayurvedic ingredient that has multifarious uses. It has antiviral, antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties that maintain the overall health of the skin.

Pros

  • It is quite affordable
  • One bottle lasts fairly long
  • It has a mild fragrance

Cons

  • It can only be used for a massage. It is not suitable to be used as a moisturizer because of its sticky texture.
  • It contains only 0.2% avocado oil despite containing avocado in its name.

Aroma Magic Organic Almond Oil by Blossom Kochhar

A blessing for extremely dry and sensitive skin, this cold pressed oil is extremely moisturizing, yet non-comedogenic. Almond oil is known to fight signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. It is a multipurpose product that may be used as a facial oil or hair oil on its own and a body massage oil after it is mixed with an essential oil/carrier oil of your choice. It claims to provide relief to itchy and irritated skin.

Pros

  • It is free of artificial colors
  • It is free of artificial fragrance
  • It is completely organic
  • It is not tested on animals

Cons

  • It will only act as a carrier oil if used as a body massage oil.
  • Almonds do not necessarily have muscle-relaxing properties
  • It can trigger an allergic reaction in people with nut allergies.

 

Balalakshadi Aromatic Sensuous Bath and Body Massage Oil by Blue Nectar

This body massage oil claims to soothe and relax the body. A blend of almond oil and sesame oil powered with ayurvedic ingredients like Bala and Ashwagandha etc., it gets easily absorbed into the skin. It may be applied before the bath and used as a body massage oil or after it, as a moisturizer.

Chief Ingredients

  • Jasmine- It has calming properties that are known to soothe the skin, with an excellent fragrance.
  • Ashwagandha- Ashwagandha has many uses in Ayurveda, one of which involves lowering stress in the mind as well as the body.
  • Almond Oil- It is one of the best oils for the skin. It lightens dark spots and adds glow and radiance to the skin.

Pros

  • It is an ayurvedic preparation
  • It is extremely affordable’
  • It is easily available

Cons

  • It has a slightly thick texture, which makes it a little difficult to wash off.
  • It comes in a standard bottle. No pump/dropper is provided.

Mother’s Body Massage Oil Balaswagandhadi by Forest Essentials

It is a completely ayurvedic body massage oil which tones and moisturizes the skin. It claims to make the skin appear firm and glow from within.

Chief Ingredients

  • Country Mallow- Also known as Bala in Ayurveda, this herb is known to calm the nervous system. It provides relief from muscle pain.
  • Winter Cherry- Also known as Ashwagandha in Ayurveda, this herb is known to lower stress levels by calming the brain and reducing swelling.
  • Liquorice root- Also known as Yashitmadhu in Ayurveda, it is claimed to be a great moisturizer and a natural sunscreen which protects us against the harmful rays of the sun.

 Pros

  • It is a completely ayurvedic formulation
  • It is free of chemicals and parabens
  • It has eco-friendly packaging.

Cons

  • It does not really help a lot with relaxing pain, despite the claims.
  • It is fairly expensive.

 

Body Massage Oil, Lemongrass and Lavender by St. Botanica.

A concoction made by mixing lemongrass and lavender essential oils with cold pressed oils, this body massage oil benefits you by relaxing sore muscles and giving you soft and glowing skin.

Chief Ingredients

  • Bran Oil – It helps in keeping the skin moisturized and nourished.
  • Sweet Almond Oil – It moisturizes and softens the skin and adds glow.
  • Grapeseed Oil – Enriched with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, it promotes the overall health of the skin.

Pros

  • It is a 100% natural product free of parabens and mineral oils
  • It is vegan
  • It is not tested on animals

Cons

  • It has an overpowering fragrance because of the essential oils
  • It is not suitable for oily skin
  • It may irritate your skin

 

Khadi Natural Jasmine Massage Oil

An oil blend of all-natural ingredients, this product claims to bring relief to stiff joints and sore muscles, and reduce tension and stress.

Chief Ingredients 

  • Olive Oil- It acts as an emollient and is deeply moisturizing to the skin.
  • Sesame Oil- It is rich in vitamins B and E. It helps in calming rashes and fading scars.
  • Sunflower Oil- It is rich in antioxidants and prevents premature aging.

Pros

  • It is very affordable
  • It has a mild fragrance

Cons

  • It is greasy and a little difficult to wash off.
  • The packaging is a little flimsy.

 

Body Oil, Fragrance-Free by Neutrogena

This light body oil acts as a great moisturizer and can act as a body massage oil when mixed with essential oils. It claims to lock in the moisture and give you soft and supple skin. However, it is a chemical product and does not have many natural/Ayurvedic ingredients

Pros

  • It is a very lightweight oil that gets easily absorbed into the skin.
  • It does not irritate the skin.

Cons

  • It contains synthetic ingredients
  • It is fairly expensive
  • It is not easily available.

 

Spa of The World French Lavender Massage Oil by The Body Shop

A body massage oil infused with Lavender essential oil, this oil claims to relax the body and the mind and calms the senses.

Chief Ingredients

  • Sweet Almond Oil- It moisturizes the skin and adds a glow.
  • Sesame Oil- It acts as an emollient and softens the skin
  • Jojoba Oil- It treats various skin conditions like acne, eczema, etc

Pros

  • It is a vegetarian formulation
  • It is cruelty-free.
  • It has no synthetic ingredients

Cons

  • It is not meant for oily skin
  • It is fairly expensive.

 

Body massage oils are a great addition to a regular body massage. While an ordinary body massage will also destress your mind and your body, a massage with a body massage oil will elevate that experience because these oils are rich in ingredients that target specific issues. Try it whenever you can and get ready for an ultimate relaxing session that rejuvenates your body and gets you ready for the hustle, yet again!  

How can stress affect the body and how to avoid it?

One may ignore everything but when it comes to stress, the power of ignorance can never show any such dominance over life. Stress is bound to happen and there is no way to stop it. Every person in this world has stress due to various reasons. Some believe that stress is nothing other than a mere anxiety but actually this is a scientific term, where the body cannot react further to other actions.

                                  

Now, stress is something very difficult to define. Different people react differently to stress.  Sometimes it affects a person from inside and ruins him but on the contrary it also helps an individual to gain something very important. In a nutshell, it can be said that the process of stress at first is invariant and secondly it will affect every normal human being who can feel even a bit of agony in life.  Stress occurs especially to those people who are very active in life.

 

What causes stress?

There can be millions of reasons for stress to take place in human life. It is very difficult to categorize the varieties.  Yet, some common ones are:  

 

Work stress

Unhappy with work – This is the most common thing which causes stress. Sometimes people are not really happy with their work. Such issues create a lot of mental stress.  Due to this people undergo a lot of stress which in turn creates a huge pressure both on the mind and the body.

 

Too much responsibility at work- Too much responsibility at work creates tension which leads to stress.  People who hold a better post in an organization go under a lot of stress due to work pressure.

 

 

Discrimination at work place– This is indeed one of the biggest factor that leads to  stress. Facing discrimination due to caste, creed and race at work causes a huge trouble for a person. It often happens that people go insane due to unavoidable stress.

                                       

Life stress

Emotional problem- There can be various emotional problems which a person may face at one point of time like fear, hatred, anxiety etc.  These can actually make life stressful.  People often go crazy under such situations in life and slowly the stress creeps in. These situations can  make a person  mentally weak. There is no such quick recovery process in such situations.

 

Traumatic events- Events like natural disaster, theft, violence can actually create a lot of stress. These incidents are so harsh and violent that it becomes difficult to get over  them.

                        

Well, these are just a few causes of stress which are quite natural and could happen with the majority of the people.  A research study shows that people feel stress when they get involved in any sort of action like anger, violence.  Stress is something which people imbibe at times and this is absolutely an unnecessary burden which gets carried without any proper healing process.

 

How can stress harm your physical structure?

The Central Nervous System (CNS) gets affected– The CNS often gets affected due to excess stress and it is unable to behave in a normal way. Slowly it takes a toll on the body and may even lead to non-functioning of the brain.

 

Digestive system– The entire digestive system of the body suffers due to stress..   The rush of various hormones, fast breathing and increase in heart rate hampers the entire digestive process, leading to problems like acidity and constipation.

 

Immune system– Stress can also affect the immune system leading to poor immunity.  As a result, people may get affected by various diseases like viral fever, influenza, etc.  The immunity power of the body is curved down by stress.

 

 

People may get affected by stress due to uncountable reasons but they are sometimes completely unaware about how to get rid of such horrible stress problems. However, there are solutions to every problem. Stress can be tackled and worked upon, just like any other medical and psychological issue. Here are a few ready points to deal with stress.

 

Massage- A massage can be one of the best ways to cope up with stress. A de-stress massage could be a  long duration process but eventually the person recovers and feels refreshed and relaxed after the session. To undergo massage therapy one can visit a spa.

In recent years, Spa is the only destination where the entire body undergoes a healing process. Massage is altogether an art. If done properly then nothing can beat its productivity.  Sometimes it works better than pills.  In order to remove stress, it is very important to relax the mind at first and then the body.  If you are really suffering from unnatural stress, then you should undergo a  body spa.  Remember, there is no alternative to natural therapy like massage in order to get rid of stress and tension.  Visit a spa and  unwind with a massage.

                                  

Shirodhara– This is a traditional, proven Ayurveda therapy for total relaxation. In this therapy,  ayurvedic oil, infused with herbs, is poured on the forehead.  Apart from relaxation and rejuvenation, Shirodhara is helpful in treating other ailments like sinusitis and headaches. People often undergo this therapy in order to rejuvenate themselves.

 

Anti-depressant– It often happens that due to stress people get depression and sleeping disorders.  This can actually make a person go insane after a certain point of time.  Anti- depressant drugs help people to get rid of such disorders. A doctor or a psychiatrist may prescribe it, depending on the patient’s mental health. These medicines should never be consumed, unless prescribed by a registered practitioner.

 

There are numerous other ways to deal with stress but a good massage or a Shirodhara may give instant results. These are hence considered one of the best and beneficial ways to get rid of stress. Any kind of stress, be it emotional stress or work stress, can be dealt in a perfect way with these..

Some people  believe that natural remedies  are the best way to deal with stress. Some of the natural ways are meditation, exercise etc.  But eventually such activities have a delayed result and till then the level of stress may go up and create further disorder. It is therefore recommended to take the help of a relaxing massage or some other kind of therapy, with instant results.

Stress is an anecdote of life. Every individual belonging to any status undergoes a certain amount of stress.  If you are suffering from any sort of stress then don’t delay it. Find a perfect spa for massage or get involved in some other healing process. Life is indeed a beautiful object; don’t try to ruin it with stress.

How To Know You Are Stressed And How To Avoid It?

Stress is our body’s way of responding to any type of demand or threat. When we feel threatened, our nervous system responds by secreting a flood of stress hormones which include adrenaline and cortisol. Those hormones rouse the body for emergency action. As a result heartbeats get quicker, muscles tighten, blood pressure rises, breathing quickens, and senses get sharper. These physical changes boost your strength and stamina, increase your reaction time, and enhance your focus. This is called the ‘fight or flight’ or mobilization stress response and this is how your body protects you. Here are some.

 

Signs that Denote you are Stressed

YOU ARE CONSTANTLY SICK: If you keep getting a cough, sore throat or a fever, it might be because of the stress.

As per medical professionals, when we are under too much pressure, our bodies release a stress hormone called cortisol which can help us in the short-term. However, when you are stressed out constantly, these hormones can become depleted after some time. Though cortisol and other hormones help our body to cope with stress, we get more susceptible to sickness when these hormones are withdrawn.

What to do: Listen to your body if you feel drained or tired and take some time off your schedule. Sleep for at least 8 hours daily. Give your body the time it requires to recover. Find the Best Spa in your locality and pamper yourself with a Body Massage.

 

 

YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE CONCENTRATING: You are definitely under stress if you are too overwhelmed to focus on what is in front of you, or you can’t recall simple things such as a colleague’s name.

Studies have connected long-term exposure to surplus amounts of stress to shrinking of the brain’s memory center, the hippocampus. Research has also shown that being under stress for too long can stimulate growth of proteins that might lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

What to do: If it seems that you are experiencing this throughout the day, taking a few long inhales and exhales can help when under extreme pressure. Deep breathing helps us to control our thoughts and it also affects the bodily sensations which we experience when faced with a high-stress situation. Deep breathing also helps to control the heart rate and blood flow and muscle tension.

 

YOU HAVE A CONSTANT HEADACHE: If you feel pressure or throbbing anywhere on your head or temple area, it might just be a stress headache which is caused by tension.

Most of the time people tend to think that any particular problem in their life is causing the headache, but their lifestyle should be blamed instead. However, you should keep in mind that a headache might be a sign of some serious health problem. So, at those times you should visit a doctor immediately.

What to do: When you understand that stress is causing you headache; the easiest thing to do is to have less stress in your life. But it is not that simple. It is a challenge to de-stress yourself. Meditation, diet control, music, Spa therapies are some of the ways to cope with stress. A relaxing de-stress massage is a sure shot. Choose oil from aromatherapy essential oils, which may help to relax your brain. Ask your spa expert for more on the choice of oil.

 

 

YOUR BACK AND NECK IS ALWAYS ACHING: If you have got Back Pain or Stiff Neck, it could be because of long-term stress, and not only the position you sit in throughout the day. High levels of stress and tension can result in discomfort and Muscle Pain by tightening muscles and causing muscle spasms. Knotted muscles in your neck can also give birth to headaches. However, if you have developed backache and neck pain after an accident or emotional trauma, it could be due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Surveys have shown that a lot of people are not able to heal their backache until they handle the emotional stress which is causing it.

What to do: There are many relaxation techniques that can help you with stress reduction, including guided imagery, taking deep breaths, meditation and even getting a Spa. You should devote some time to Stretching breaks during the day to help stop muscles from tightening up. You can also try yoga at the end of the day. This will help ease your Joint Pain as well.

For Neck Pain and knots in the muscles, a gentle massage helps release the tension in muscles. A Potli massage with warm herbal oil can provide immediate relief. You may ask your nearest Spa for a Potli massage or may consult a physiotherapist for neck exercises.

 

YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE GETTING A SOUND SLEEP: If you find yourself waking up in middle of the night or pondering on things, it could mean you are suffering from anxiety or stress. After a long and tiring day, you should fall asleep easily. Our brain only relaxes during the time we sleep. When you have a difficult time falling asleep, even when you are tired, it is possibly because of the stress.

What to do: Consult your doctor about this and ask if your chronic stress may have led to this. When you are not getting enough sleep, everyday problems can make you feel more frustrated and overwhelmed. This happens as your brain is already tired and hence is more vulnerable to anxiety and depression. A worn out body is not properly prepared to cope with stressful situations and ward off illness. To get proper sleep at night, cut back on caffeinated beverages. You can opt to have a cup of warm chamomile tea before hitting the bed. You could even try reading a book before going to bed.

 

YOU ARE HAVING MORE THAN USUAL HAIR FALL: When you find more than a few strands of hair on your pillow after waking up in the morning, it may be because of the constant stress. You could be suffering from a medical condition known as alopecia areata, an autoimmune skin disease, which is brought on when the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles. It causes small round patches of hair loss on the scalp. It is likely to be associated with a severe stressor, such as an assault or a significant traumatic event. This disease usually happens in young women.

 

 

What to do: Usually, this is a temporary condition and your hair will grow back once the stress has reduced. Try to take a few days of leave from the office and get a relaxing body massage or just take up a membership with a spa and get de-stress therapy done. Some Ayurvedic massages like Shirodhara are helpful in combating stress.

In a nutshell, most health problems could be an indicator of your stress level. The first thing that has to be done is to de-stress oneself and understand the underlying cause of the problem. Most stress situations can be combated and worked at. A doctor or a counselor should suggest the corrective measures or if medical intervention is needed. So, uninstall the word ‘Stress’ from the motherboard of your life.

Is your headache Migraine?

Most of us often experience head pain. What is a head pain? Sometimes, the symptom of a pain is felt in the areas of the head and neck. Head pain can be caused due to several reasons such as migraine, stress and tension related headache and due to cold. Though a normal headache is not treated seriously it often hampers our energy potential and efficiency to work.  A frequent occurrence of head pain can affect your professional life and as well as relationships. Sometimes, the risk of depression increases due to the severe and frequent head pain. The most important thing for the treatment is the identification of the category of your headache. Otherwise, you cannot prevent this type of health hazard.

 

What is migraine and what are the causes?

As we have stated earlier, there are different causes why we experience head pain. How will you identify if your problem is related to migraine? Most of the common symptoms of migraine include vomiting, nausea, numbness or tingling, difficulty in speaking, sensitivity to light and sound but there are other symptoms also which vary from person to person. A migraine may occur genetically where some particular genetic components are responsible for it. During recent research, this fact has been found. There is no such age limit. It can affect you at any age and at your younger age too.

The period of an attack can vary from individual to individual and according to the severity of your symptoms. In general, it lasts for at least four hours. You have to visit your physician or hospital if you cannot get over even after four days of the migraine attack.

There are different phases of a migraine attack. Sometimes, you can experience the attack even without the head pain. This type of attack is known as “silent migraine” and medically referred to as acephalgic migraine.

 

How will you differentiate migraine from a regular headache?

It is still debatable whether migraine is a neurological disorder or a neurological disease. It also can affect you without head pain. So, it is not just a regular headache, it includes different devastating neurological symptoms. In general, migraine head pain occurs on one side of the head and throbbing in nature. Therefore, migraine pain is quite different from the regular symptoms caused by the common cold and cough where people experience delicate discomforts related to the head.

 

Why is sinus different from migraine?

Some people often are confused between the symptoms of migraine and sinus. More than 90% cases, migraine is misdiagnosed as sinus. Whereas the pain related to migraine is associated with facial and forehead pressure, runny nose and nasal congestion, the symptoms of the sinus are related to the blocked and filled sinuses crammed with fluid and other bacterial growth.

What is the definition of sinus or sinus infection? It is the swelling or an inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. Normally, a healthy sinus is filled with air. Due to some reasons, these sinuses are blocked or filled with fluid and germs which can cause infection further. Then you will experience discomfort and problems.

 

Reasons for sinus blockage:

  • Sometimes, the common cold causes sinus blockage.
  • Allergies rhinitis which swells on the lining of your nose.
  • Nasal polyps or small growth particles in the lining of the nose.
  • A deviated septum – a change in your nasal cavity.
  • Due to the sensitivity and allergic tendency to a particular chemical, a sinus infection may happen.
  • Immune system deficiency can cause sinus infections. Sometimes, a certain type of medication can also decrease your natural immunity power. People in this condition may suffer from sinus infections.

 

 

How many types of sinus infections may occur?

According to the severity of your infection, sinus can be classified as the following:

Acute sinus: It can start with the common symptoms of cold and cough such as the stuffy and runny nose, head and facial pain. Normally, you have to suffer for 2-4 weeks.

Sub acute sinus: It lasts for 4 to 12 weeks.

Chronic infection: This type of chronic sinus infection or sinusitis will make you suffer for more than 12 weeks.

Infected sinus: It occurs multiple times a year.

 

How will you get a complete revival from severe head pain, migraine and sinus?

When you get a severe migraine attack you wish to do whatever to get over this problem. If you have a serious attack which lasts for more than 4 days, then you need to follow a proper prescription suggested by a specialist doctor. But you can avoid, prevent or at least lower down the duration and the severity with the help of natural home remedies.

 

Cool down with an ice pack: Place an ice pack on your forehead or you can substitute it with a piece of wet cloth. It works whatever the actual reason is. Maybe it can reduce blood flow to relax your muscles.

 

Caffeine: You can have a cup of tea or coffee to get some mild relief. It will absorb fatigue and provide you energy thus you will feel lower pain in your head.

 

Oil massage: you can use lavender oil as a migraine oil to get relief from the head pain by inhaling it or simply massaging it on your forehead. It will relax your tissues and muscles. If you don’t have lavender, you can choose peppermint oil which contains menthol. You can apply and massage with peppermint oil or any menthol solution on the forehead and temples. It is more effective than any of the popular painkillers that you always take during your migraine and sinus attacks.

Acupressure: You can opt for acupressure therapy. On the particular points of your body, a specialist will apply pressure with the finger. It surely will give you relief from severe migraine and sinus. A proper acupressure can help you to overcome nausea caused by migraine.

 

Folk remedy with feverfew: It is flowering herb which is used for years to prevent the symptoms of migraine and to get relief from the pain. Though it is not established scientifically yet, experienced people say it reacts positively to lower down the discomfort level and the duration of the pain.

Now you know the difference between migraine pain and normal headache, you have to keep in mind, a severe stage of head pain, migraine and sinus infection should only be treated medically along with a properly prescribed medicine.

Why do we procrastinate and what can we do about it?

Procrastination is a common behavioral problem that we all deal with every now and then. Some people are so seriously affected by this procrastination problem that it becomes the biggest hurdle in fulfilling their goals and disrupts their career and personal life.

Sometimes, you may have something important on your plate and you may even want to get started on your task, but you just can’t and use every excuse in the world to put off those tasks.

Do you often feel a need for something to motivate you or raise your spirits? If you want to beat the bad habit of procrastination, and get your tasks done on time, then you have come to the right place. Here are some strategies that will help you power through the procrastination and get some stuff done.

 

Reduce your stress factors

Anxiety related procrastination is a very common problem for people suffering with anxiety disorders. Well, you can’t change the world around you, so removing all the stress factors from life is not possible, but you can surely try to manage it better and eliminate some of the regular causes of anxiety and stress. 

With effective medical treatment, support, and proper guidance, you can learn ways to change your mindset and move forward in life. Once you bring down your anxiety level, it will eventually help you in overcoming anxiety-related procrastination.

 

Develop your own tactics

 You can successfully deal with stress and stress related procrastination if you use mindfulness techniques like meditation and pranayam etc. Several psychiatric research and studies show that these mindfulness techniques are very effective in coping with physical and emotional symptoms of your anxiety.

Light stretching exercises and some simple yoga moves can also aid in reducing anxiety and stress level by affecting the body’s biochemistry. Massage therapy can be effective for insomnia, stress, anxiety and several types of behavioral problems like procrastination etc. Massage increases your oxytocin and serotonin levels, which in turn helps in alleviating negative impact of stress and anxiety from your body.

 

Prioritize your tasks

The pressure of handling too many tasks and daily activities in a short period of time can be very stressful for anyone. It makes you feel burdened and your mind starts looking for excuses to avoid those activities.

 So in order to de-clutter your mind, you should prioritize every big and small task; then work hard and push yourself to accomplish your high priority tasks first. When you list down your goals on a piece of paper, you unconsciously force yourself to do it. This trick works for not just long-term goals, but short-term goals, too. Focus on big tasks instead of using little tasks to procrastinate big ones. Realize that these smaller tasks are important and valuable, but they shouldn’t become a reason for delaying the most important work.

 

Make time for regular exercise

If stress on the job is interfering with your efficiency and making you a habitual procrastinator, then it’s time to think seriously about it. No matter how stressful your job is, there are a variety of activities that you can do to reduce your stress levels and refresh your mind.

When you feel overburdened, lose confidence and feel less motivated, take some time out for aerobic exercise or zumba to raise your heart rate and to  make yourself sweat. It is a hugely popular and effective way of lifting mood and bringing the focus back on work. Just 30 minutes of daily rhythmic movement like walking, jogging or dancing etc. can relax both your mind and body.

Don’t hesitate to take a quick break and move away from the stressful situation for a few minutes; just a fun chat with your colleague or even a trip to the water cooler or coffee machine can help you recover your balance.

 

Take massage therapy or aromatherapy

Don’t forget that relaxation therapies are extremely important to reduce stress and refresh your body and mind so that you can correctly handle your daily life challenges. A 60-minute soothing massage therapy may help you relax and get the focus back on important tasks. Your body and mind needs time to recharge, revive, and just float away. What could be a better way of pampering yourself than getting a full body oil massage or aromatherapy at your favorite spa? During your massage session, don’t think about all the activities that need to be completed, set aside your to-do list, and just concentrate on quieting your mind and relaxing the body.

 

Make time for yourself

With so many responsibilities and obligations, you may find it difficult to take some time out for things that you really enjoy. It is important to realize that you can tackle anxiety and anxiety-related procrastination better if you make an effort to relax your body and mind. Instead of sitting idle in front of TV or laptop on weekends, try to pick up a hobby like writing, reading, biking, painting, or cooking etc.

 Do something that you love to do; it will give you satisfaction and motivation to accomplish your goals. Many psychiatric research studies have come to a conclusion that stress at work is, by far, the major source of procrastination and other behavioral problems.

 

 

Eat more green vegetables and fruits

 All parts of our body like the brain, heart, and liver require energy to function properly and this energy comes from the food we consume.  So, the best way to keep your body energized and active is to give yourself the best food possible. Scientists claim that your food plays an important role in deciding your mood which explains why you feel sluggish after a big lunch or dinner.

We all know that green leafy vegetables are good for us; they provide loads of vitamins, fibers and antioxidants. Fresh vegetables and fruits are full of nutrients that refresh your tired body and mind. Similarly, fruits are also loaded with natural sugar that offers a punch of energy to your exhausted mind. You can simply rely on a healthy natural diet with fruits and vegetables to get rid of fatigue related procrastination.

In addition to all of this, you need to take time for your skin and health. After all, our skin reflects our health. When you are stressed and overworked, your skin becomes dull, dark spots appear, and you may experience pain in your body. Take some time from your busy schedule to take care of your skin.

Lifestyle changes after the age of 30

It is true that the lifestyle you follow in your thirties reflects how healthy you would be in your sixties. Although you may not look or feel much different than you did a few years ago, your body keeps changing bit by bit. Health problems, especially lifestyle-related ones, start coming up after you turn 30.

Due to today’s fast life a lot of people who are in their thirties suffer from Back Pain and Joint Pains. Depression and anxiety is also pretty common, hence it is important to take care of your mental health.

There is a stigma attached with the thirties age line that once you reach the thirties you are no longer considered young. The truth is that the feeling of being young or old is a state of mind. Making a few changes to one’s lifestyle will lead to a healthier and happier life. So, here are the certain lifestyle changes to make before blowing those 30 candles on the cake.

 

Eat healthy: This may sound dubious but is an obvious truth. Thirties is the high time when you need to start eating healthy. It cannot be stressed enough that following a Healthy Diet is extremely important to live a healthy life. Everything that you read in magazines, newspapers, web articles and blogs is very true and you should make this change when you step in your thirties.

Cut down on those extra calories, fats, carbohydrates, sugar and everything that is harmful for your health. Always avoid junk food, those pizzas may taste delicious, but they are really bad for your health. Try to eat more protein, vitamins and minerals loaded food. Follow a well-balanced healthy diet rich in protein, vitamins and low in saturated fats. Include a lot of greens, fruits and vegetables in your diet. So, make a Healthy Diet regime and eat accordingly.

 Regular Exercise: If you had no workout routine previously, then make a new regime and start following it religiously. Exercising on a regular basis would help you stay fit and young. You will definitely be more energetic and full of zest. No matter how busy your life is, you can always take some time to exercise. Even 30 minutes of daily exercise can do wonders, both for your body and your mind.

If you don’t want to work out at the gym, then running and Stretching are good options. Simple measures such as taking the stairs instead of the lift will also help. Moderate exercise will help you get rid of even the slightest Back Pain or Joint Pain. Always remember, Motion is the Best Lotion.

 

Get rid of bad habits: Since you are not in your twenties anymore, your body may not be able to handle that binge drinking sessions like it had earlier. Same goes with smoking. If you are a frequent drinker or a chain smoker, then you need to cut back. Try to get rid of all the bad habits. If you can’t stop smoking completely, then cut down slowly on the number of cigarettes. Cigarettes come with a warning. Do read the warning every time you take out one from the packet. It may help to wake up your conscience.  Also, try to limit your drinking sessions to once a week or on special occasions.

 

 

Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is really important for your overall health. Besides giving you ugly dark circles, lack of sleep can stop you from functioning properly. Try to get a minimum of 6-8 hours of sleep daily. Do not compromise on your sleep unless it is a need of the hour situation. Getting sound sleep will keep you fresh and energetic throughout the day. If you have trouble falling asleep, then have a cup of chamomile tea before hitting the bed at night. Also, refrain from using mobile phones, tabs, computers and laptops at bedtime. Read a book instead.

Getting an ayurvedic massage like Shirodhara will induce a good night sleep. Shirodhara is nothing but a gentle massage on your forehead through a continuous flow of warm ayurvedic oil.

 Indulge in some ‘me’ time: It is really important to follow this point. Indulge in quality ‘me’ time, twice a week. You can do anything that you enjoy doing. Pamper yourself by getting a Spa Massage or a Body Massage once in a fortnight. You could also go for a movie or read a book. You could even start pursuing a new hobby. Basically, make sure to do something that you enjoy and makes you happy and stress free.

 

 Get regular health check-up: It is an old but a wise saying – Prevention is better than cure. It is a wise idea to get a full body check-up done annually after you enter your thirties and half yearly after you enter forties. This will help you diagnose your health problems, if any, at an early stage.

For women, it is recommended to get a mammogram done every year. It is proved in various studies that diagnosing breast cancer early reduces the risk of dying from the disease by 25% to 30%.

Most of the health problems arise from a bad lifestyle or poor mental health. To overcome mental health problems, visit a spa and take a membership plan. Go for de-stress therapy and make sure that you stick to your plan.

 

 Pursue what you love: Following your passion is the best thing you could ever do. If you are not satisfied with your job, then thirties is the perfect time to quit and start exploring your passion.

Even if you are happy with your job but that’s not your passion, take time out of your schedule and pursue what you really love. Travel to new places, cities, countries, meet new people, explore new cultures, take pictures, paint, go hiking, take dancing lessons, write a book; just do whatever that makes you truly happy.

Pursuing your heart and hobby is one of the most significant lifestyle changes that should be made when you are in your thirties. By doing this you will get to know yourself better and will be at peace with yourself.

 

Start loving yourself: Loving yourself is necessary especially when you hit your thirties. A lot of people start getting depressed thinking that they are getting older and they can’t have fun like before. So avoid all the negative thoughts and learn to love yourself. In order to do that you have to first believe in yourself and bring back confidence in yourself. Be proud of your appearance, your mind, ambitions and dreams. Don’t get affected by any criticism and love yourself wholly.

Be content: There is nothing wrong in wanting to be more successful. It is good to try to achieve more and grow more. However, you should be content with what you already have. You should stay happy in every situation and under every circumstance. This will bring inner peace and satisfaction.

Why taking time out for Body Massage is critical during Stressful times

Stress is relative 

Fight against Stress

All of us go through ups and downs in our lives. When looked closely, most of us may have perception that stress in our lives is more than most of other people. But when looked over a period of time or retrospectively, we may agree and settle on a more optimistic conclusion:)

When we are going through stressful times, it is most important to sit back, analyse, deep breathe and take steps that could reduce stress at that point in time. Stress hormones are produced by body that may be perceived as potentially dangerous. While short term stress is good as it improves our reaction and response to immediate situations. E.g. could be more attentive and high performance during exam or during a tennis match or during an office meeting. But long term high stress hormones are associated with cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that could disturb balance between Fat and carbohydrate mechanism. This over a period of time is associated with lifestyle disorders like Diabetes, Hypertension etc.

Time And Stress Are Relative So Is Advice

 

Stress bearing capacity can be enhanced

While the number of years have advanced, age at which we incur stress has got preponed. Amount of stress in 1960-70s for a 50 year aged guy is experienced by a guy aged 20-30s in current times. As stress bearing capacity is not fully developed in 20-30s that results in adverse reaction to stress like alcoholism, drug addiction, irritable mood, aggressive behaviour like road rage etc. It is important to understand that most of us have certain extent of stress bearing capability. As a result most of us end up taking as much stress which is inversely proportional to our stress bearing capacity. Somebody’s day may be spoiled because she couldnt earn enough for her dinner or somebody’s may be having a foul day because she didn’t have matching foot wear with her trousseau. Or worse somebody’s afternoon may be spoiled because she didn’t get mustard sauce along with her lunch burger. Context may be different in above three scenarios but amount of stress incurred may still be the same depending on individuals stress bearing capacity. Each of these subject may undergo similar degree of hypertension or other stress symptoms. Long term exposure to these stressful situation may result in equal amount of damage to our body.

Increase Stress Tolerance
Tolerate more stress

Over a period of time, our stress bearing capacity does increase at organic rate. What may cause stress at the age of 5 (like missing toy) may not cause as much stress when we are 15 or 25 or 35 years old. But we need to consciously work towards increasing our stress bearing capacity with time. This is because our source of stress increases manifold with age – if at 5 needs are basic like food, play and sleep, at 15 it increases to friends/peers, studies, competition and at 25 to money earned, marriage, social acceptability etc.

I may not be able to reduce source of stress but I can definitely enhance stress bearing capacity 

 

 

Not all situations causing stress are in our direct control. While we may work towards minimising source of stress, we shall focus more on enhancing stress bearing capacity. I may not be able to reduce traffic on my way to work but I could definitely choose travel time or route or music in car that could help me bear traffic more amicably rather than having a daily tussle and grumbling. Some of contextual situations and ideas for reducing stress are highlighted in table below

Infighting between people at home – Wife/Mom or with Spouse Listen, Listen, Listen. Spending distraction free time with each of them with greater listening power could be great stress buster. You could be therapist for them if you can make them speak up in their inner thoughts and woes which will be cathartic in reducing cortisol hormone
I don’t spend enough time with children This could be constant worry of parents especially if they are working. Do spend distraction free time on a daily basis as a friend and not only as parent. This means sharing shall be both ways. If we want to know about what they did in school, their response will be more forthcoming if I share what happened during my day.
Lots to do and so little time Lot of times it happens that we have too much on our plate. Challenge is how to declutter our mind and empty if of multiple thought streams to fully focus on job in hand. Maintaining an organizer may help. Spa and Body Massages could be extremely helpful to empty your mind of thought vagaries

Stress free person

 

The underlying theme in above mentioned approach we need to build our stress bearing capacity which could help us reduce stress in our daily lives and in lives of people associated with us. Meditation, Deep breathing, Spa & Body Massages, Sports activity are definitely most tried and tested method. If you could engage in an hour of physical engagement where you loose sense of time – whether sports or Body Massage – could be best stress buster. Go ahead, try some of these techniques and give us feedback on our small attempt to make it stress free world.

 

How to Maintain High Energy and Lower Stress Levels for the Entire Week

Have you wondered why some people have high energy levels and are able to combat stress effectively? Would you also like to have boundless energy and be immune to stress? Then read on for valuable tips and techniques.

  • Have Enough Sleep

Different people have different sleep requirements. Make sure you have adequate sleep as per your body requirements. Have power naps at your place of work to give you ample rest and be charged for your next assignment.

  • Plan in Advance

Write down whatever you want to achieve on a particular day. Then prioritize the tasks. Make sure you get started on the high priority ones right away. This way you don’t waste time and effort doing tasks that have poor returns. Remember the 80/20 rule. As per the rule, 80% of business comes from 20% of the customers. So, make sure you focus on the valuable 20% of clients who give you the majority of deals.

  • Have a Healthy Diet

Make sure you consume enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Remember to drink plenty of water that will keep you hydrated throughout the day. Your diet has a major role to play in your energy levels and ability to tackle stress. Stay away from items having high levels of caffeine and refined sugar. Check yourself for any vitamin or mineral deficiency.  If you have some deficiency you ought to consume vitamin or mineral supplements as prescribed by a medical professional. Avoid processed food and red meat too.

High Energy Levels

  • Exercise Regularly

Morning in the best time to exercise. Go outdoors to connect with nature and get your daily dose of oxygen and sunshine. Exercising release Endorphins – the feel-good chemicals in the body. The human body needs exercise just as it needs food and fresh air.

  • Positive Thinking

Avoid negative thoughts and negative people. They sap you of your energy. Positive thoughts energize you and are infectious. The former makes you persevere and persist in situations that make many people give up.

  • Yoga

Yoga benefits both the body and mind. You do not need any fancy equipment. Fit people have the most energy and are the most stress-free. Yoga has the techniques to banish stress from any part of the body and mind.

  • Meditation

Meditation has been proven to ramp up energy levels as well as eliminate stress. The former is best done in a silent environment. It helps you push out negative thoughts and focus on the positives in life. It is potent as it encourages the individual to be in the present rather than recalling the past or worrying about what the future holds.

Yoga and Excercise

  • Ayurveda

There are many ayurvedic ingredients that boost your energy levels and keep stress at bay. An Ayurvedic practitioner can prescribe medicines and design a diet as per your body diet. This is safe and free from major side effects.

  • Laugh and Smile Often

As per scientific research people who laugh and smile frequently have a better quality of life as well as have prolonged life spans. A tip is to have jokes and photos of your family put up at your workplace to cheer you up whenever you are feeling low. There are many laughing clubs you can join where participants are encouraged to laugh out loudly.

  • Learn to say ‘No’

You can’t satisfy everybody and keep all happy. It is not realistic. Agree to demands that you are confident of satisfying. Some may find it hard to say ‘No’. It is better to say ‘No’ at the onset instead of saying ‘Yes’ and disappointing folk later by being unable to meet their deadlines.

  • Consume Ginseng

This is widely advocated in Chinese traditional medicine. Ginseng is believed to have rejuvenating and refreshing properties. There exist plenty of people who will testify to its ability to boost health and bring down stress.

Ginseng

  • Take a Hot or Cold Shower

As per your preference and the climate you can take frequent hot or cold baths. It will make you feel clean and smell better. In addition, it helps boost blood circulation.

  • Destress Spa

Visit a spa at least once a month. They will give you stress massage therapy with different oils and ingredients that will remove all stress and make you ready to meet any sort of challenges. The money spent on spas is well worth it.

  • Aromatherapy

The smell of essential destress oils have been proven to drive away stress and fatigue. Keep essential oils at home and office to have that energetic feeling. Experiment with different oils so that you find out which works best for you.

Aromatherapy

  • Drink Chamomile Tea

This beverage has been employed for ages to get rid of stress, tension, and fatigue. It is economical and can be prepared at home.Green Tea

  • Limit the use of Electronic Gadgets

Instead of watching television indulge in sports or social activities. Meet up friends and relatives physically instead of phoning them. Limit screen time as much as possible. Scientific studies indicate that the rampant usage of electronic devices is a major source of modern day stress. Checking email frequently is a habit most of us have. Instead, check emails just 2 to 3 times a day.

  • Eat Meals Prepared at Home

Fast food is a modern-day phenomenon. We eat out more frequently than we did in the past. You have no control over the ingredients and the technique of preparing the food. You are what you eat. By eating home cooked food you eliminate the risk of ingesting pollutants and carcinogens.

  • Have Frequent Holidays

Successful people make sure they have enough play time. Research indicates that individuals who holiday frequently are the happiest as well as most productive. Holidays are a perfect opportunity to connect with family and take a break from work.

Holidays

  • Get Enough Sunlight

Patients with depression are encouraged to get adequate sun exposure. Even normal individuals need to be exposed to the sun to boost energy and minimize stress. Sun is part of nature. Nature plays a vital role in our energy levels and stresses fighting capabilities.

How could Ayurveda help with Stress-relief?

Stress has become a fairly common element of the modern life. While little amount of stress is productive, excessive stress can seriously damage our health – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Almost everyone in today’s world is living a chaotic life, be it the household life, the school life, the workplace, or the society.

Ayurveda, the ancient system of natural healing, offers a totally distinctive and holistic approach to stress management. It recommends several natural effective ways of stress management for our day-to-day life. Ayurveda focuses on using the intrinsic power of herbal medicines to treat various physical and mental diseases.

According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the systems of human body are governed by three fundamental energies: Vata, Pitta & Kapha.

Energies of Life
The 3 Doshas of Ayurveda

When the balance of these 3 energies a.k.a  ‘3 doshas’ is disturbed, our body and mind start suffering with various diseases. Therefore, the Ayurvedic experts advocate the use of various natural remedies to bring back the balance of these three energies of Ayurveda. These natural substances are totally harmless and support our body in managing an easy, stress-free life.

Ayurvedic herbs for stress relief

A range of powerful combinations of herbs and plants have been mentioned in Ayurvedic scriptures. These combinations/ herbs help in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression etc.

The BRAHMI herb is considered very helpful in the treatment of stress. It takes care of the mental disturbance, headaches, anxiety and depression. Brahmi has shown amazing effects on serious disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. It is highly recommended for people suffering with stress, post-natal depression, anxiety etc.

Brahmi is beneficial in treatment of stress
Brahmi Herb

ASHWAGANDHA is yet another important stress bursting herb which is heavily used in Ayurvedic medicines.

Ashwagandha for treatment of Stress
Ashwaganda – a powerful Herb

According to an eminent ayurvedic consultant, Ashwagandha is an all-purpose brain tonic, which improves our thinking ability, memory power and concentration. It basically helps in maintaining the chemical balance in our brain, which in turn helps us deal with chronic stress. One study published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine suggests that Ashwagandha has shown extremely positive results in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Alternative Therapy for Stress Relief

Restore your inner balance with yoga and meditation

Most of us are juggling from one task to another during the day, and there is a constant lack of time to finish those tasks. The pressure that we feel due to a tight schedule may negatively affect our mental and physical health. Over a period of time our body, mind and heart start losing the sync.

Meditation is vital for stress relief
Meditation

Therefore, it is essential to re-establish the inner connection in order to regain our mental and physical balance.  The practice of yoga and meditation allows us to naturally experience our inner self, which in turn increases our capacity to handle challenges of life more easily and calmly.

Yoga, meditation and other relaxation therapies allow our body, mind and heart to be more integrated. Thus our natural balance is restored and the level of stress and anxiety goes down.

Food for a stress-free life – Eat Right

As we know, prolonged stress generates free radicals and toxic chemicals. This disturbs the balance of vata, pitta and kapha in our body and creates several disorders. These disorders could be related to health, brain, heart and digestive system. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, food that we eat can also work as our medicine. The right kind of foods can help us find our inner peace and reduce stress.

Eat Right
Food for Stress-Relief

In case of stress and anxiety, all plain or sweet fruits are usually considered the right choice due to their vata and pitta pacifying qualities. These two energies stimulate and control various mental and physical functions. Hence, it is important to pacify them in order to maintain proper functioning of the body.

Berries, bananas, sweet orange and amla help in pacifying pitta. They reduce the stress level by providing Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. All kinds of berries like blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are good sources of antioxidants and vitamin C. Consuming these fruits on regular basis may help reduce the risk of depression, tiredness and anxiety etc.

Abhyangam (The ancient oil massage therapy) for stress relief

Abhyangam is the ancient warm oil massage therapy which recharges and rejuvenates the whole body and mind. It is a very effective ancient treatment of muscles and connective tissues, which also help calm down the nervous system. Abhyanga with Ayurvedic nutrient-rich warm oils promotes good sleep. It also helps to improve skin while taking care of your emotional health. In this treatment, warm Ayurvedic oil is poured and gently applied on the body. Oil starts penetrating, slowly, through the cells and removes the harmful toxins or ‘Ama’ from the body. This makes our body and mind feel totally relaxed and stress- free.  This warm oil massage on regular basis can help pacify tri-doshas and promote good health.