Ayurveda and Grief

Grief is one of life’s most universal experiences. Whether it comes from losing a loved one, a relationship ending, or a major life transition, grief touches not only our hearts but also our bodies and minds.

In Ayurveda, grief is called śoka, and it’s recognized as a powerful influence on our health. Rather than treating grief as something to “get over,” Ayurveda teaches us how to move through sorrow with compassion and balance, so we can eventually return to a place of peace.

How Ayurveda Understands Grief

According to Ayurveda, emotions are not separate from the body — they’re woven into our entire being.

• Air & Space (Vata dosha) often becomes aggravated in grief. This can show up as anxiety, emptiness, restlessness, poor sleep, and irregular digestion.

• Earth & Water (Kapha Dosha) may increase, leading to heaviness, withdrawal, or depression.

• Fire & Water (Pitta dosha) may flare with anger, irritability, or inflammation.

This is why grief feels so all-encompassing: it truly touches every layer of who we are — body, mind, and spirit.

Gentle Ayurvedic Support for Grieving

Here are some traditional practices and remedies that can bring comfort and steadiness while moving through grief.

Nourishing Foods for Comfort

When grief disturbs digestion, the best medicine is warm, simple, grounding foods:

• Kitchari (a rice and mung dal porridge)

• Vegetable stews with warming spices

• Soups with ghee or coconut oil

These foods bring back warmth and stability to the body.

My favorite ghee :

4th & Heart Original Grass-Fed Ghee, Clarified Butter

An easy kitchari ready made kit just add ghee, water and your fav veggies -

Divya's Soothing Kitchari, Mild & Herbal, One-Pot Ayurvedic Meal

Self-Care Rituals for Soothing the Heart

• Abhyanga (self-oil massage): Massage the body with warm sesame oil or Ashwagandha oil before a warm bath or shower. This calms the nervous system and helps release stored tension.

• Warm baths with essential oils like rose, lavender, or sandalwood can be deeply comforting.

Banyan Botanicals Ashwagandha OilHerbal Allies for the Mind and Spirit

Certain Ayurvedic herbs are beloved for easing grief and balancing the mind:

• Ashwagandha – strength and resilience during times of depletion

• Brahmi (Gotu Kola) – calm focus and clarity

• Tulsi (Holy Basil) – uplifting the heart and spirit

• Jatamansi – soothing for heavy sorrow and sleeplessness

Practices for Emotional Balance

• Breathwork (Pranayama): Alternate Nostril Breathing helps balance emotions, while 3-part breathing grounds anxious energy.

• Yoga Nidra: A deeply restful guided practice that helps the subconscious process emotions safely.

• Mantra & Prayer: Chanting or repeating healing mantras like the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra can bring peace and connection.

Ritual & Community Support

In Ayurveda, grief is not something to carry alone. Practices such as lighting a lamp, creating an altar, or offering flowers can help channel emotion into sacred remembrance. Spending time with supportive friends or family (satsang) also restores the heart.

An oil or ghee lamp is more than just light — its flame creates a calming, grounding energy that can help soothe the mind and heart. Unlike wax candles, oil lamps support a sense of presence and intention, making them a simple yet powerful tool for moments of reflection or healing.

Oil Lamp:

Handmade Golden Diya Lamp Engraved Design

Oil for lamp (you can use any natural oil or ghee) :

Kevala Organic Extra Virgin Sesame Oil The Ayurvedic View of Healing

Ayurveda doesn’t see grief as a “problem” to solve but as a natural process of the heart. By nourishing the body, calming the mind, and honoring the spirit, we can allow sorrow to flow — and eventually transform into wisdom, compassion, and strength.

If you are grieving, remember: healing takes time, and it’s okay to lean into practices that make you feel held and grounded.

Reading :

The Chakras in Grief and Trauma

In part two, I’ll share gentle yoga and breathing practices you can use to release grief and reconnect with your body.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes and not a substitute for medical advice. If grief feels overwhelming or persistent, please seek the support of a qualified health professional or counselor. Much Love.