What rituals from the past teach us about panic and anxiety
a day ago
- #historical-treatments
- #panic-attacks
- #mental-health
- Benzodiazepines are modern medications used to treat panic but carry risks of dependence.
- Historical figures like Hippocrates and Avicenna described panic symptoms and laid foundations for understanding mental health.
- Ancient practices like trepanation were used for physical conditions but not effective for mental disorders.
- Cultural rituals such as the Zār ceremony and shamanic practices used rhythm and community to address panic and anxiety.
- Ancient Egyptian healing involved rituals, music, and symbolism to treat emotional and physical distress.
- Modern research explores brainwave entrainment and rhythmic breathing as non-addictive treatments for panic.
- Holotropic breathwork, inspired by Indigenous traditions, uses rhythmic breathing and drumming for emotional release.
- Historical and modern approaches both aim to engage the nervous system and restore balance to the brain.