Winding Down: The Ayurvedic Way to Rest, Rebalance & Restore

There’s something sacred about how we end the day.

It’s not just about sleep, it’s about letting go, gently returning to balance, and giving our bodies a chance to heal from the inside out. In Ayurveda, this evening transition is just as vital as what we eat or how we move.

Yet, for so many of us, our nights are rushed or restless. We scroll until our eyes blur, chase tasks until we crash, or lie in bed unable to turn off the mind.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

When we honor the natural rhythm of the evening, when we create space to slow down, we align with the body’s innate wisdom. That’s when real restoration begins.

Here are five calming rituals I return to again and again—simple practices that support deep rest, clear energy, and a more peaceful tomorrow.

Abhyanga: The Power of Warm Oil Massage

A few minutes of gently massaging warm oil into your feet, hands, or scalp can calm the nervous system almost instantly. I do this most nights before bed using sesame or Brahmi oil.

It’s a beautiful way to ground the body and soothe an overstimulated mind.

Dim the Lights, Power Down

Artificial lighting, especially from screens, disrupts melatonin, your body’s sleep hormone. Ayurveda encourages syncing with the sun. So when it gets dark outside, let it get darker inside too.

I switch off bright lights and light a few candles. One hour before bed, screens are off. It’s one of the most transformative habits I’ve created.

Moonlight Gazing

Some evenings, I step outside and simply look up at the moon. A few quiet moments under its soft glow can do wonders for pitta-driven tension and mental overactivity.

It’s subtle. It’s beautiful. And it works.

Gratitude + Mantra

Before sleep, I take a moment to reflect. I might write down three things I’m thankful for or silently repeat a calming mantra like “Om Shanti.”

This clears emotional clutter and brings a gentle sense of closure to the day.

Herbal Support

A warm cup of tulsi, chamomile, or ashwagandha tea is my go-to when I feel wired or heavy before bed. These herbs help regulate stress hormones and bring the body into rest mode.

Pair it with a few deep breaths, and you’ll feel your entire system begin to unwind.

Start Small, Sleep Deep

You don’t need a perfect bedtime routine. You just need presence. Choose one of these rituals tonight. Let it anchor you. Let it remind you that rest isn’t a luxury, it’s your natural state.

Healing begins when we listen.

About Dr. Puja Shah, Editor-in-Chief of The Natural Law

Dr. Puja Shah is an award-winning author whose 93 year old grandmother swore by Ayurvedic remedies and practiced yoga into her last days. And so while her education includes 9 years of medical training as a dentist, 3 teaching qualifications in yoga, and dozens of courses in meditation, it’s no wonder that she always goes back to Ayurveda. Puja harnesses Ayurveda regularly with her children and husband Amish Shah, Founder of The Natural Law.

Rest, Rebalance & Restore at The Natural Law Panchakarma Retreat

If your heart is craving deeper rest, and your spirit whispers for more than routine— we invite you to journey with us.

We are hosting two sacred retreats in India— immersive experiences in ancient wisdom, elemental healing, and true Ayurvedic renewal.

Whether you’re called to explore or simply to receive, you’ll find space to return to balance—body, mind, and soul.