Dr Kranthi R Vardhan - Weekly Newsletter - Issue#175

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the 175th edition of our Ayurvedic Wellness Newsletter.

In the previous issue, we explored how the thyroid reflects metabolic rhythm.
Today, we go deeper — to a connection modern science is finally discovering, but Ayurveda explained thousands of years ago.

The Gut–Brain Axis.
Or in Ayurvedic language:
Pakvashaya (colon), Agni, Vata, and Manas (mind).

Modern Science Says: “The Gut Is the Second Brain”

Ayurveda gently smiles and says:
“We told you so.”

Over 70% of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, are produced in the gut.
But Ayurveda goes further:

When digestion is disturbed, the mind cannot be stable.
When the colon is unhealthy, Vata becomes violent — and the mind suffers.

Ayurvedic Understanding of Gut–Mind Connection

Key Classical Concepts:

• Agni – governs digestion and perception
• Pakvashaya (Colon) – main seat of Vata
• Vata Dosha – controller of nervous system
• Manovaha Srotas – channels of the mind

If Agni weakens → Ama forms
If Ama accumulates → Vata aggravates
If Vata aggravates → Mind becomes restless, anxious, fearful

Mental illness often begins in the gut.

Early Signs of Gut–Brain Imbalance

Digestive signs:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Constipation or loose stools
• Irregular appetite
• Acid reflux

Mental & emotional signs:

• Anxiety
• Overthinking
• Insomnia
• Brain fog
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Poor focus

Ayurveda sees these not as separate problems, but as one continuum.

The Role of Vata: The Main Culprit

Vata is:
• Light
• Dry
• Mobile
• Irregular

When Vata increases in the colon, it:
• Disturbs nerve signals
• Dries digestive secretions
• Creates fear, worry, instability
• Disrupts sleep and memory

This is why IBS, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and depression often coexist.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Gut–Brain Healing

Triphala – Gentle colon detox and Vata regulation
Hing (Asafoetida) – Reduces gas and nervous gut
Brahmi – Calms mind and supports gut nerves
Ashwagandha – Reduces stress-induced gut damage
Guduchi – Clears Ama and inflammation
Shankhapushpi – Nourishes Manovaha Srotas

Herbs are chosen based on gut type + mental state, not diagnosis labels.

Diet That Heals Both Gut & Mind

Favour:
• Warm, freshly cooked food
• Ghee (Vata pacifier)
• Rice, moong dal
• Cooked vegetables
• Mild spices

Avoid:
• Cold foods
• Raw salads at night
• Excess caffeine
• Processed foods
• Irregular eating

The gut loves warmth, rhythm, and simplicity.

Daily Practices That Reset the Gut–Brain Axis

• Fixed meal timings
• Abhyanga (oil massage)
• Early dinner
• Pranayama (especially Anulom Vilom)
• Adequate sleep
• Silence and stillness daily

Ayurveda treats the nervous system through routine.

Vardhan’s Tip of the Week

If your mind is disturbed, do not start with the head.
Start with digestion and the colon.

Dr. Vardhan Says

“Most mental disorders are not chemical imbalances alone.
They are digestive, lifestyle, and Vata disorders in disguise.”

Healing the gut often heals the mind — naturally and sustainably.

Final Thoughts

Peace of mind does not come from positive thinking alone.
It comes from balanced digestion, grounded routine, and calm Vata.

Heal the gut.
The mind will follow.

With clarity and calm,
Dr. Kranthi R Vardhan
🌐 www.vardhanayurveda.com •

📞 7997 108 108

P.S. (Vata-Focused)

If you struggle with anxiety, IBS, insomnia, fear, or mental restlessness, it may be Vata imbalance rooted in the colon. Our Ayurvedic Gut–Mind Reset Programs focus on Agni correction, Vata pacification, and nervous system nourishment. Access our Newsletter Archive here.