Tips for an Active Mind

 

Tips for an Active Yet Calm Mind

An overactive mind can come as a natural tendency for many causing unnecessary stress and worry. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of health documented over 5000 years ago, offers various traditional yet very effective methods to help relax the mind, increase focus and energy yet keep the mind calm.

  1. Meditation

Ayurveda strongly speaks of meditation as a very effective method for calming the mind and reducing tension. By bringing attention on the breath and becoming aware of the present moment, we can calm the mind and detoxify the mind of negative thoughts and emotions that feel draining.

2. Yoga

Yoga is another strong pillar in the Ayurvedic daily practices to keep a healthy and fit mind. Yoga asanas (postures), Pranayamas (breathing techniques), and Mudras (symbolic hand gestures) can help to balance the doshas, or bioenergies, in the body, which can help to rid the mind of unwanted chatter therefore reducing stress and anxiety.

3. Pranayama (Breath Control)

Another important practice that is highly admired, is Pranayama, or breath control. Prana is the subtle life force energy and Yama means to store or to direct. Ayurveda teaches us that by controlling the breath, we can manage the mind. Practicing different breathing techniques, such as Nadi Shodhan (alternate nostril breathing), Sheetali Pranayam, Brahmari Pranayam and many other east to practice methods, can help to calm the mind and reduce stress.

4. Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurveda also recommends incorporating certain plant medicine as methods of daily rejuvenation.

Some key Ayurvedic herbs include:

  • Ashwagandha– Helps reduce stress and anxiety

  • Licorice - Supports adrenal health and energy levels

  • Tulsi - Holy Basil -Promotes relaxation and mental clarity

  • Brahmi - recognized as useful for reducing overthinking and promoting cognitive function.

5. Daily Routine & Relaxation Practices

Ayurveda suggests that maintaining a structured daily routine (Dinacharya) and making time for relaxation can significantly reduce stress. Some recommended practices include:

  • Journaling

  • Listening to soothing music

  • Practicing self-massage (Abhyanga) and scalp massage

  • Taking a warm bath before bed

By incorporating these Ayurvedic practices into your daily life, you can cultivate a more peaceful and focused mind while effectively managing stress.

 
 
 
 
 
Nayna Trehan