sleep Archives - Doctor Rekha

Dreams – aren’t they fascinating? Sometimes, they feel like magical adventures. Other times, they leave us wondering, “What was that all about?” Personally, I often dream about swimming in vast water bodies, struggling to reach the shore. It’s a relentless loop, and guess what? I never reach the shore! Do you have recurring dreams too? Ever wonder if they mean something? Well, in Ayurveda, dreams aren’t just random images. They’re a window into your subconscious mind, influenced by your body, mind, and even your Dosha balance. Curious? Let’s dive into what Ayurveda says about dream. Why Do We Dream? As per Ayurveda, dream start in the soul (Atma) and are visualised by the mind. When you are asleep, it’s time for your conscious mind to take a break. But your subconscious mind? It stays active; consequently, it sorts through unresolved thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This is where it comes from—an intricate dance between your soul and mind. Dreams, as described in Ayurvedic texts like the Charaka Samhita, are vast and complex, offering insights into our inner world. The 7 Types of Dreams in Ayurveda Ayurveda categorizes dreams into seven fascinating types: Dreams of things you have seen These are like replays of your day. Did you watch a movie or visit a bustling market? You might dream about it. Or you might see a person in your dream you met during the day or talked about. Dreams of things you have heard about Heard a spooky ghost story or an inspiring tale? Don’t be surprised if it pops up in your dream. Dreams of things you have experienced These come from past events – happy memories or even old fears resurfacing. Dreams born from pure imagination Sometimes, your mind creates its own stories, weaving dreams out of creativity. These are generally clueless. You can sometimes laugh in the morning at the weirdness of your dream last night. Dreams influenced by the universe According to Ayurveda, cosmic energies can impact your dream. These are subtle messages from the universe. Dreams arising from emotions When emotions like fear, anger or joy dominate, they shape your dreams. Dreams due to your Dosha Now, this is the most fascinating one. Your Dosha – Vata, Pitta, or Kapha – can influence the type of dreams you have. Let’s explore this in detail. Dreams Due to Your Dosha Ayurveda reveals that your it can reflect your body’s Prakriti (body type) or even Dosha imbalances. Here’s what different Dosha-related dreams might mean: Vata dream If you see yourself flying, climbing trees or riding animals and vehicles, it’s a sign of Vata’s influence. Vata governs movement and creativity, so these dreams often have a free-spirited, adventurous vibe. Pitta dream Do you dream of fire, the sun, flashes of light or sunsets? That’s Pitta in action. Pitta represents heat and transformation; therefore, it mirrors its fiery nature. Kapha dream If you see water bodies, lotuses or clouds, Kapha might be at play. These dreams often feel calm; in fact, they reflect Kapha’s grounding and nurturing qualities. Meaning Behind Dreams Dreams are like mirrors; in fact, they show you what’s happening inside your body and mind. They can be signals – calling attention to Dosha imbalances or unresolved emotions. For example, if you constantly dream of chaotic events or feel restless in your sleep, it could point to an aggravated Vata. Similarly, fiery or intense dreams might suggest Pitta imbalance, while sluggish or water-filled dreams could indicate Kapha imbalance. Bad Dreams and Nightmares Not all dreams are pleasant. Some are unsettling and can leave you feeling drained. Ayurveda recognizes that bad dreams or nightmares aren’t healthy for the mind. They can disturb your mental peace; furthermore, they can even disrupt your sleep cycle. If you frequently experience a bad dream, it’s worth exploring ways to calm your mind and balance your Doshas. Tackling Bad Dreams One effective Ayurvedic practice to manage bad dream is Padabhyanga – a soothing foot massage with oil before bed. Why does it work? Because your feet have powerful energy points that are connected to your body and mind. Massaging them helps release tension, calm the mind, and promote restful sleep. Learn more about Padabhyanga here. My Dream Loop Here’s more about my recurring dream. It’s always about water bodies. I see myself swimming tirelessly, trying to reach the shore. But no matter how hard I try, I never seem to make it. This dream could be Kapha-related, as water symbolizes Kapha in Ayurveda. It might also reflect my subconscious mind working through some unresolved thoughts or emotions. What about you? What dream visits you most often? The Beauty of Ayurvedic Dream Analysis The world of dream is vast and mysterious. Furthermore, Ayurveda offers a unique lens to explore them, connecting our inner world to the balance (or imbalance) of Doshas. Understanding your dream isn’t just intriguing – it’s a step toward self-awareness. It helps you, therefore, listen to your body, mind, and soul; consequently, guiding you to restore harmony. So, the next time you wake up from a vivid dream, don’t brush it off. Pause. Reflect. It might just be your inner world sending you a message. What do your dreams look like? Let me know in the comments below. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

In my career, I have come across many patients who have been battling diabetes for years. During my consultations with them, I often notice that they share something in common – months and years of improper sleep or, to be more precise, insomnia. But they are not the only ones. In today’s world, insomnia is indeed a serious health issue faced by many. As per reports, at least 38% of adults around the world are deprived of sleep. Stress, bad eating habits and other factors can all contribute to the condition. Lack of sleep not only makes you feel tired for the whole day. It also has an adverse effect on your physical and mental health, increasing the chances of having diseases. Ayurvedic treatment for insomnia includes dietary corrections, herbal medicines (if needed), and Ayurvedic therapy that promotes better sleep. Let’s learn more about insomnia, therefore, from the Ayurvedic perspective in this blog. What is Insomnia ? Insomnia is a sleeping disorder, marked by trouble falling asleep, not being able to stay asleep, or not having good quality sleep. It can have a negative impact on your overall well-being and functioning. Insomnia can be acute, where it lasts for a few days or weeks, and chronic, where it lasts for months or years. Even if you are doing everything right, you are putting your long-term health at risk if your sleep is not on point. Taking care of your sleep is extremely important for preventing many diseases, like diabetes, PCOS, and cancer. Even a partial or full night of sleep deprivation, consequently, can increase your insulin resistance and your sugar levels. Lack of sleep also causes a reduction in immunity, reduced strength of the body and the mind, weakness, debility, and reduced fertility and longevity. Insomnia as per Ayurveda Ayurveda calls insomnia “Anidra” or “Nidranasha.” Although it seems to be a modern-day problem, Ayurveda has always emphasized the importance of sleep for health and longevity in ancient texts. “Nidra samyak prakrutisthaa sukham dukham pushtikarshyam | Balaabalam vrushata klibata jnaanajnaane cha karanam ||” Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana 21:35) Translation: Sleep, when balanced, leads to happiness, nourishment, strength, and wisdom. However, improper sleep results in suffering, weakness, and ignorance. In Ayurvedic terms, Nidra (sleep) is one of the three pillars of health (Traya Upasthambha), along with Aahara (food) and Brahmacharya (regulated lifestyle). Acharya Sushruta has stated that inadequate sleep can lead to Prameha (diabetes), Hridroga (heart disease) and even premature aging. Ayurvedic Approach to Insomnia According to Ayurveda, a low Kapha Dosha and an aggravated Vata Dosha could be the reasons for insomnia. Vata Dosha controls movement and activity, while Kapha Dosha takes care of lubrication of joints, nourishment, growth, etc. Imbalances in these Doshas, consequently, can affect your ability to sleep well. Insomnia can be cured Ayurvedically through lifestyle and dietary changes, medicines (if required), and therapies. Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Better Sleep Ayurveda promotes a set of lifestyle changes that can help you sleep better. Fix your sleep schedule Set a specific sleeping and wake-up time for every day; in addition, this should include weekends. This, consequently, helps you establish good sleep quality and set the body’s internal sleep clock. Avoid distractions Remove any gadgets from your bedroom that can distract you from sleeping. For instance, leave your mobile phones in the living room (this is something I follow). Create a relaxing sleep environment The ideal environment for sleep, therefore, would be a dark, quiet, and cool bedroom. Avoid using bright lights in the bedroom. Also, make sure that the temperature in the room is cool and comfortable. Engage in some mindfulness and meditation Practice meditation and mindfulness to calm your mind and, as a result, to have proper sleep. Take a few minutes each night, for instance, to practice deep breathing or, alternatively, to do some guided meditation. Also, practising yoga poses like Shavasana (Corpse Pose) and Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose) before bed can relax your nervous system and improve sleep quality. Ayurvedic Dietary Tips for Better Sleep Your diet also has a role to play in your sleeping pattern. Eat a light dinner Moreover, have warm, freshly cooked, and easily digestible foods for dinner. Therefore, avoid heavy, spicy, or raw foods, as they can indeed aggravate your Vata Dosha. Drinking warm milk infused with a pinch of nutmeg before bed is an excellent Ayurvedic remedy for insomnia. Avoid stimulants Try to avoid coffee, alcohol, and other stimulating drinks that contain sugar at night. These drinks make it difficult for you to go to sleep, thus affecting your sleep timings. Instead, consider opting for herbal tea or water. Stay hydrated Drink plenty of water during the day. This not only helps regulate your body’s temperature, but it also helps you sleep well. Ayurvedic Therapies to Treat Insomnia These are some of the therapies, therefore, Ayurveda recommends to have better sleep. Shiro Abhyanga Shiro Abhyanga – a head massage done using medicated oils, is, in fact, a great method to improve your sleep. It helps, therefore, calm the mind; additionally, it improves your blood circulation; and, furthermore, it reduces the anxiety and stress you’re feeling. Shirovasti In this treatment method, medicated oil is, therefore, held on the patient’s head within a hollow head cap. Shirovasti helps relax both body and mind and thereby, helps you sleep better. Thalapothichil This therapy involves covering the scalp with herbal paste. Thalapothichil helps relax your mind and body, and also promotes sleep. Shirodhara Shirodhara is another Ayurvedic therapy that helps improve the quality of your sleep and take care of your insomnia. This treatment,… Continue reading Insomnia – Cure it Naturally with Ayurveda

Ageing is inevitable. But it does not mean that it has to be a tough or bitter experience. Instead, it should be considered as a graceful and meaningful journey. With the help of Ayurveda, you can make the journey towards older age beautiful by focusing on improving the quality of your physical and mental well-being. Take Care of Yourself According to Ayurveda, ageing is a natural process regulated by the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. As we age, our Vata Dosha goes out of balance and we experience it through symptoms, such as dryness, weakness and difficulty in mobility. Therefore, balancing Vata Dosha is essential to remain healthy and active in the later years. Ayurveda recommends many natural ways to keep your Vata Dosha in balance. Change Your Lifestyle Indeed, lifestyle changes can make a whole lot of difference in the way you age. Follow a Daily Routine Following a structured daily routine or Dinacharya has a strong positive influence over the Doshas. Morning rituals Start the day with a glass of warm water to wash out toxins. Oil pulling, brushing and tongue scraping are small routine activities that make way for great oral health. This should be followed by some yoga or stretching exercises to keep your body flexible and disease-free. Oil massage (Abhyanga) Use organic black sesame oil to do a full-body massage before taking a shower. It helps to moisten and feed the skin. It also prevents the formation of cracks and relieves Vata Dosha. Healthy breakfast Consume a balanced, freshly cooked breakfast to have energy throughout the day. Don’t run after the packaged breakfast options like cereals, muesli, etc. Cook your first meal of the day with love and with a dash of ghee and it will do wonders to balance your aggravated Vata. Want to learn more about Dinacharya? Download my e-book for free. Have a Balanced Diet While planning for a meal, include foods that are fresh and organic and are light on the tummy. Have warm, cooked foods As you age, your digestion may be compromised. Hence your body may not be able to absorb nutrients properly. Therefore, it is advisable to go for warm, cooked meals rather than raw, cold, or heavy foods that, on the other hand, may cause indigestion. Consume anti-ageing foods Increase the intake of foods that can help counter oxidative stress such as berries, green leafy vegetables, fruits and nuts. Stay hydrated Have plenty of water, especially during the warmer Summer and Autumn months or if you engage in heavy physical activity or work outdoors. You can also have herbal teas occasionally to help detoxify your body. However, not all herbs may be suitable for you. So, it’s better to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor for advice. Sleep Well Sleep is an essential factor for overall wellness. Have adequate sleep One must get quality sleep in order to be healthy and alert. Sleep for 6-8 hours at night so that your body gets enough repair time to rejuvenate itself. Establish a sleep routine Be consistent with your sleep and wake-up timings. In addition, this helps to set your body clock efficiently. Create a calming environment Declutter your bedroom by getting rid of all the electronic gadgets and things that may distract you at night. Practice relaxation techniques Do activities that will help you relax, such as listening to music or reading a book, before sleeping. Try Detoxification As we age, more toxin buildup happens in our body because our body’s natural process of expelling the toxins gets weakened. Detoxification flushes out toxins from the body and revitalizes tissues. Seasonal detox Discuss with an Ayurvedic doctor to choose one suitable detox program at the beginning of every season. Detoxifying not only purifies your body but also improves your energy levels. Herbal teas Occasionally, drink herbal teas that support liver functions and remove toxins from the body. Remember, not all herbal teas suit you. So, it’s better to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor for advice. Sip dry ginger tea at night. It gently detoxifies your gut, boosts digestive fire and promotes blood circulation. Dry ginger also controls Vata, which is the dominant Dosha especially in old age. Ayurvedic Practices for Ageing Apart from diet and lifestyle practices, Ayurveda also recommends certain practices that help you age well. Yoga and Exercise Physical exercise is vital so as to keep your body in the best shape possible. Yoga Perform relatively low-impact movements to help in the flexibility of joints. First, try Bitilasana Marjariasana (Cat-Cow pose); then, move on to Balasana (Child’s pose); and finally, conclude with Pashchimottanasana (Seated forward bend pose). It is advisable to perform these poses under the supervision of an expert Yoga trainer if you are a beginner. Also, practising Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) daily can also help maintain flexibility and energy levels. Daily walks Take a walk for about 45 to 60 minutes daily. It improves blood circulation; as a result, it makes you feel better and more energized. Strength training Do strength training under the supervision of an expert trainer to help sustain muscles and bones. As the endurance power of your muscles increase, new cells regenerate, delaying the ageing process. Mindfulness and Meditation Age is just a number! It’s all in your mind. Your mental health is, therefore, also of great importance in healthy ageing. Meditation … Continue reading Ageing with Ayurveda

Shankhupushpi, scientifically known as Convolvulus pluricaulis, is considered as a brain herb in Ayurveda. It’s revered mainly due to its capacity of boosting cognitive functions, enhancing memory and lowering stress levels. In the ancient texts of Ayurveda, Shankhapushpi is described as a Medhya Rasayana – a rejuvenator of the mind. In this blog, let us delve into the details of how Shankhapushpi is beneficial for the brain. Shankhupushpi Benefits for Brain In today’s fast-paced world, cognitive health is more important than ever. Shankhapushpi is a great natural solution to enhance mental clarity, concentration and overall brain performance. Enhances Memory and Learning Shankhupushpi is renowned not only for its ability to boost memory but also, for its learning capabilities. It’s great for boosting focus and memory, making it a fantastic herb for both students and professionals. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Stress and anxiety can take a toll on cognitive functions. Shankhupushpi is an amazing natural adaptogen that supports the body in handling stress and reducing anxiety levels. It works to soothe the mind and cultivate a sense of tranquillity within. Improves Cognitive Function Regular consumption of Shankhupushpi can enhance overall cognitive function. It assists not only in making better decisions and solving problems, but also, in boosting creativity. Shankhupushpi for Adults Adults often face cognitive decline due to various factors such as stress, ageing and lifestyle choices. Shankhupushpi for adults can be a game-changer, offering a natural way to boost brain health. Combats Age-Related Cognitive Decline As we age, our cognitive functions tend to decline. Shankhupushpi helps in slowing down this process, keeping the brain sharp and active. Enhances Focus and Attention For adults juggling multiple responsibilities, maintaining focus and attention can be challenging. Shankhupushpi enhances these cognitive abilities, making daily tasks easier to manage. Supports Emotional Well-being Emotional health is crucial for cognitive function. Moreover, Shankhupushpi supports emotional well-being, helping to maintain a positive outlook and reduces the risk of depression. Learn one more benefit of Shankhpushpi in this video: Forms of Shankhupushpi Shankhupushpi is available in various forms, each with its unique benefits and usage. Shankhupushpi Tonic Tonic is a popular form, especially for those who prefer liquid supplements. It is easy to consume and also, quickly absorbed by the body, providing rapid benefits. Shankhapushpi Powder Shankhapushpi powder is another versatile form. It can be mixed with either water or milk or any beverage of choice. Its benefits include improved digestion, better absorption and ease of use. Shankhupushpi Tablets For those who prefer convenience, Shankhupushpi tablets are an excellent option. They’re easy to carry and can be eaten while you’re on the move, so you can make sure you’re getting enough of this powerful herb every day. Remember, it is always better to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor before taking Shankhapushpi in any form. How to Use Shankhapushpi? Incorporating Shankhapushpi into your daily routine is simple and can be done in various ways. Dosage The recommended dosage of Shankhapushpi varies based on age, health condition, and form of the herb. Generally, 1-2 teaspoons of Shankhapushpi powder or 2-4 tablespoons of Shankhapushpi tonic daily is sufficient. But, it’s better toseek the help of an Ayurvedic doctor to know the right dosage suitable for you. Best Time to Consume For optimal benefits, consume Shankhapushpi in the morning on an empty stomach. This allows for better absorption and ensures that the herb starts working right away to boost your cognitive functions. Combining with Other Herbs Shankhapushpi can be combined with other Ayurvedic herbs for enhanced benefits. For instance, combining it with Brahmi can further boost memory and cognitive functions. Always consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner before combining herbs. The Science Behind Shankhapushpi Modern science has started to validate the traditional uses of Shankhapushpi. Studies have shown that Shankhapushpi contains alkaloids, flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to its cognitive-enhancing properties. Neuroprotective Effects Research indicates that Shankhupushpi has neuroprotective effects, helping to protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This makes it an excellent herb for long-term brain health. Anti-Anxiety and Antidepressant Properties Studies have also highlighted Shankhupushpi’s anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties. By modulating neurotransmitter levels, Shankhupushpi helps in reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being. Ayurvedic Perspective on Cognitive Health According to Ayurveda, cognitive health is closely linked to the balance of Doshas and the state of our Agni or digestive fire. An imbalance in Vata, Pitta or Kapha Doshas can lead to cognitive issues, such as memory loss, anxiety, and lack of focus. Shankhapushpi helps in balancing these Doshas, promoting overall cognitive health. Dietary and Lifestyle Tips for Cognitive Enhancement In addition to taking Shankhapushpi, following a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle can further enhance your cognitive functions. Having a Balanced Diet Consume a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Foods that are easy to digest help maintain a healthy Agni and prevent the build up of Ama (toxins). Also, your diet should align with your Prakriti (body type), Dosha imbalances and health conditions. You can approach an Ayurvedic doctor to help you with your diet. Yoga and Meditation Regular practice of yoga and meditation helps in reducing stress, improving focus and enhancing overall mental well-being. Enough Sound Sleep Sleep is essential for cognitive health. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your brain to rest and rejuvenate. Shankhupushpi is an amazing herb that has lots of benefits for your brain health. If you want to boost your memory, lower stress or make your brain work better. It is a great thing to add to your everyday schedule. As an Ayurvedic doctor, I really suggest trying Shankhupushpi to see how it can change your… Continue reading Shankhupushpi: The Brain Tonic for Cognitive Enhancement

Adequate and restful sleep is critical for the body to heal and repair itself and lack of it can lead to many health problems. In this article, let us explore the importance of sleep for our health according to Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, proper sleep is essential for good health and well-being. In Ayurvedic philosophy, it is considered one of the three pillars of life; moreover, it stands alongside diet and lifestyle. In Ayurveda, sleep is considered, in fact, a natural state of rest and, furthermore, rejuvenation. According to Ayurvedic principles, the human body is composed of three Doshas or biophysical energies – Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each of these Doshas, therefore, has a unique influence on our sleep patterns and, its quality. Ayurveda believes that a balanced Dosha system is necessary for good sleep. An imbalance in any of the Doshas, can lead to disturbances and, as a result, health problems. Restful Sleep, Stronger Health Ayurveda acknowledges the importance of sleep for health and well-being. According to Ayurveda, there are a number of ways that getting enough sleep can be beneficial to our health: Rest and rejuvenation It is a natural state of rest and rejuvenation, and the body uses this time to repair and regenerate itself. During the process, the body produces growth hormones, which are essential for cell repair and tissue growth. Immune system booster It is also necessary for a strong immune system. The body creates cytokines , which are proteins that aid in the fight against stress, infection and inflammation. Enhances cognitive function Proper sleep is essential for cognitive function; moreover, it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and learning. It is also essential for mood regulation and emotional balance. Improves digestion Adequate sleep is critical for good digestion and metabolism. It helps to regulate hormones that control appetite and digestion, and lack of it can lead to weight gain and metabolic imbalances. Reduces inflammation Cancer, diabetes and heart disease are just a few of the chronic health problems that inflammation in the body is a key cause of. Getting enough sleep is essential for reducing body inflammation. Ayurvedic tips for Better Sleep Furthermore, Ayurveda offers many natural remedies and lifestyle practices for improving its quality. Here are some Ayurvedic tips: Have a consistent schedule Even on weekends, Ayurveda, therefore, advises maintaining a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. Better, it is encouraged furthermore, the body’s natural cycle is helped to be regulated. Create a relaxing environment A dark, quiet and cool environment is ideal. Avoid bright lights and loud noises in the bedroom; furthermore, keep the temperature cool and comfortable. Practice relaxation techniques Ayurveda recommends relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga for reducing stress and promoting better sleep. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital.

I had an ‘education heavy’ childhood. Everything around my upbringing revolved around getting good education and getting a professional degree. Staying awake late night for studying always made my mother happy, and I could see that when she would bring tea and snacks to help me study all night long! Somewhere, I secretly felt proud about myself too. In college, I continued the same habit. Sleeping for a long time used to give me anxiety and major FOMO. I would feel, therefore, that I lost all the time I could have used for something productive and useful. I ignored my low energy levels, lethargy, weight gain, and low immunity that came with lack of sleep and found joy in getting ‘better scores’ and I reached a point where I lost complete control of my health. Finally, I had to make a choice – success or health? Today, if given a chance, I will tell my younger self to sleep, rest and replenish. Sleep is when your anti-cancer hormone (melatonin), your fat loss hormone (HGH), your hunger and satiety hormones (leptin and ghrelin) work. Sleep is when you restock your ammunition to fight diseases – immunity is developed when you sleep. Life has taught me the hard way to give first priority to health than success. Success will come and go. Money will come and go. Your health is your biggest asset therefore, never let it go away easily. Sleep is an investment for good health. Sleep is PRODUCTIVE! Doctor Rekha is a 4th generation Ayurvedic Medicine Doctor (BAMS) living in between Dubai and India who has patients from around the globe who believes that the wisdom of Ayurveda can help everyone lead a happy, heathy and disease-free life. If you are struggling with any health issues, you can either book a consultation with us or send us a message via WhatsApp to +91 79074 89839. We have the best Ayurvedic doctors in Trivandrum who are always glad to help you. If you have any queries, contact us. You can also visit us at our hospital. You can also follow me on Instagram.

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Tag: sleep

What Do Your Dreams Mean?

Insomnia – Cure it Naturally with Ayurveda

Ageing with Ayurveda

Shankhupushpi: The Brain Tonic for Cognitive Enhancement

Sleep Your Way to a Healthy Life

Success or Health ? – The one advise I wish someone gave me

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