Foods for Stress: 7 Ayurvedic Foods to Find Your Inner Calm

In general, all bland and/or sweet foods are calming and stress relieving, due to their Vata- (air) and Pitta- (fire) pacifying nature

Vata and Pitta are the factors [that] are the stimulants and driving forces behind all mental and physical functions, and hence, calming them down helps to reduce that ‘adrenaline rush’ in the body, thereby helping in calming and reducing anxiety

Berries, Bananas, Sweet Orange, Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries contain healthy antioxidants and vitamin C, plus they help prevent a boost in cortisol — the stress hormone produced by the adrenal gland.

Coconut Water

Calming, satisfying, soothing and nourishing, coconut water also supplements potassium in the body and helps in combating muscular stress as well,

Milk

Nuts (Cashew, Walnuts and Almonds)

You could try softening almonds in the morning then eat them before bed time to help your mind rest,” Rout suggests. “Or you could also eat raw almonds during the day before eating other foods because it helps absorb nutrients better. Moreover, this has mono-saturated fat, which is good for your heart.

Chocolate

Sweet combats Pitta (fire energy) and Vata (air energy), which are the forces behind stress and fatigue. “Chocolate satiates both body and mind, and it has been noted that chocolate releases ‘feel-good factors’ like endorphins in the body

Herbs

The following herbs used as essential oils, massage oils, herbal tea and in food can help the body and mind to combat stress, Dr. Kakunje says. These herbs improve the immune function and reduce fatigue. In Ayurveda, they are considered as Vata-and Pitta-reducing herbs.

1. Chamomile: Calming 2. Pennywort (Brahmi): Calming, memory booster 3. Ashwagandha: Nerve tonic, stress reliever 4. Mint: Soothing, calming 5. Lavender: Calming