In a fast paced stress dominated world like today where long hours of work, endless deadlines, digital distractions and social commitments produce insurmountable amounts of stress. And sleep disorders have become one of the most common health concerns. Poor lifestyle habits, improper nutrition and other modern factors have completely damaged body’s natural circadian rhythm.
Sleep also called as Nidra by Ayurveda is considered to be one of the three pillars of life alongside a balanced lifestyle and food. When our sleep gets affected both our body and mind fall out of balance.
Kerala the cradle of Ayurveda offers some of the most effective therapies and ayurvedic Panchakarma treatments in Kerala which restores sleep cycles, helps calm down the nervous system and strengthens overall mental well being. The tropical climate, Ayurvedic rituals, traditional practices for healing and certified and experienced ayurvedic practitioners have made Kerala the perfect place for finding relief in sleep disorders and insomnia.
How Ayurveda looks at Sleep issues
As per the Ayurvedic understanding any issues related to sleep. Whether it is the quality of sleep or restlessness while trying to sleep or even the number of hours one sleeps. It is affected by any imbalances caused in the Vata Dosha of the body. The Vata Dosha is directly related to the nervous system and therefore regulates mental activity and movement. When there is any aggravation in this dosha it results in anxiety, restlessness, occurrence of multiple thoughts and irregularity in the sleeping patterns.
In addition to this factor such as imbalances with the hormones poor food choices damaged lifestyle routines lack of physical movement less exposure to sun and emotional stress also result in Sleep disorders Unlike Modern treatments Ayurveda aims to fix this in a more natural and long lasting manner through its time tested Ayurvedic treatments.
Best Panchakarma therapies In Kerala for treating insomnia and sleep disorders
Shirodhara – the signature therapy for good sleep
Shirodhara is perhaps one of the best therapies for treating sleep issues especially insomnia. This therapy involves a gentle pour of warm herb infused oils over the forehead in a constant stream. It focuses on relaxing the third eye region – Agya Chakra.
It is especially beneficial in reducing cortisol levels in the body, slowing down the overactive brain waves, relaxing the nervous system and treating sleeplessness that is caused by anxiety. It also boosts the production of Serotonin levels in the body that enhances better mode and affects the quality of sleep.
Abhyanga – Herbal oil massage to calm the Vata dosha
Abhyanga is one of the best oil massages that helps to soothe the imbalanced Vata dosha. It basically involves applying herb infused oil gently warmed in rhythmic circles with appropriate amount of pressure over the entire body. In addition to enhancing relaxation and promoting deep sleep, Abhyanga also reduces stiffness in the muscles and joints and helps the overall relaxation of the body alongside boosting blood circulation.
Pizhichil – the Royal Oil Bath therapy to relax the nervous system
Pizhichil is also called as the ‘King of ayurvedic therapies’ as it combines oil massage alongside continuous pour of warm oil over the entire body. Usually this treatment requires two to three litres of oil and this has been followed traditionally by the royal families in Kerala.
It is extremely beneficial in relaxing the neuromuscular system of the body and reduces chronic stress, fatigue and neurological disorders that directly impact sleep. This is the perfect treatment to modern day stress and insomnia caused by long hours of and endless work deadlines.
Nasya – nasal administration treatment for good sleep and enhanced breathing
Nasya is one of the five step procedures of the Panchakarma treatment. In this therapy the patient is offered a nasal administration that involves herb infused oils or herbal decoctions. Often poor sleep or insomnia is caused by headache, sinuses, stress and even hormonal imbalances. Nasya helps in clearing up the toxins that have been accumulated in the head region for a long time. It relieves patients suffering from migraine, headaches and enhances the flow of oxygen in facial and head region alongside calming the mind that gets reflected in good sleeping.
Thalopothichil – Application of herbal paste to relieve stress
Thalopothichil involves the application of herbal pastes on the scalp to offer relief in stress, headaches, anxiety, irritability and depression. This ayurvedic treatment when paired with Shirodhara supports natural healing, and fixes the body’s sleep cycles.
Why choose Kerala for Ayurvedic therapies
- Abundance of natural herbs Ingredients found in the rich biodiversity of Kerala.
- Certified vaidyas or medical practitioners who supervise the ayurvedic treatments.
- State run Ayurveda centres that offer professional diagnose alongside incorporating the teachings of traditional ayurvedic textbooks.
- Personalized treatments which are based on a person’s unique body constitution.
- Kerala follows time tested traditions that resolve issues without any side effects.
Conclusion
In a world dominated by stress, long working hours and social and mental pressure, sleep is the one of the most common concerns that gets disrupted. The Ayurvedic treatments of Kerala carry time tested traditional wisdom that not only fixes the sleep cycle of the body. But also offers long term restoration and relief. Instead of looking for quick fixes or popping pills, ayurvedic treatments offer organic, sustainable and long term solutions that naturally fix the quality and sleep cycle of the body.
