Panic Attacks from an Ayurvedic Perspective

Today's fast-paced lifestyle has lead to panic attacks being on the increase. However, these panic attacks can be treated using Ayurvedic practices. 

Ayurveda considers panic attacks as being a form of modern vata imbalance. Using certain measures can balance the doshas and thus ease panic attacks. 

The holistic approach of Ayurveda is particularly beneficial for those who have had only moderate results using conventional forms of therapy. Medication as a form of treatment for panic attacks loses its effects once the medication is longer consumed. This is due to the medication only treating the symptoms of these panic attacks as opposed to their underlying roots. The ayurvedic approach can lead to supporting recovery on all levels. Therefore, it is also considered a supplementary form of treatment in conjunction with conventional therapies. 

Increased Panic Attacks

Statistics show that approximately four percent of us will suffer from a panic attack or anxiety disorder in our lifetime. A typical panic attack will subside within about ten minutes. However, in some cases, these panic attacks may last several hours. Many who suffer from severe panic attacks tend to withdraw themselves more and more. 

If you suffer from at least four of these symptoms, you are most likely experiencing a panic attack: 

• fear of losing control

• difficulty breathing

• depersonalisation (the feeling of not being oneself or that mind and body not aligned)

• derealisation (feeling that the situation or the environment is not real)

• tightness in the chest

• suffocation

• extreme perception of one's heartbeat

• palpitations

• hot flashes

• chills

• pain

• sweat

• agony

• nausea

• trembling

An expert ayurvedic doctor recognizes that these anxiety disorders are but symptoms of the underlying root of the problem. The real cause of these symptoms needs to be monitored very closely each time. Suitable measures can only be taken once the trigger is identified. 

The cause of vata imbalance that accompanies panic attacks is often found in modern lifestyles. The nervous system is constantly being confronted with new stimuli and is not at rest. These stimuli include: 

• irregular day and sleep schedule (irregular daily routine, going to bed too late)

• irregular mealtimes

• constant stress and lacking the possibility of resting

• too much television triggers restlessness

• worry

• time pressure

• work stress

• no emotional support

Faster, higher, stronger - Today's lifestyle imparts wanting more for a longer period of time without rest. The body's warning signs are ignored until it rebels and the problems erupt. 

What is of utmost importance when it comes to panic attacks is easing the body and mind. More regularity must be practiced on a day to day basis, reducing stress and increasing relaxation and regeneration periods. This can be achieved through meditation or panchakarma treatments, which are ideal for promoting balance. The following factors should be considered when trying to find balance and tranquility:

• retiring for bed at an early time slot and following these times on a regular basis

• sleep in once at the weekend (without the use of an alarm clock)

• practice more regularity in daily life: regular mealtimes

• food and beverages that balance vata

• napping

• physical activity such as walking

• yoga for more balance and tranquility

• the use of ayurvedic herbs: Ashwaganda, Jatamansi, are Guduchi and Brahmi .