Ayurvedic Understanding of Nidranash as a Lifestyle Disorder

Nidra is one of the most important physiological functions of life and is considered an essential pillar of health in Ayurveda. Along with Ahara and Brahmacharya, it forms the basis of healthy living and helps in maintaining physical strength, mental stability, nourishment, happiness, immunity, and longevity. Ayurvedic classics explain that Nidra occurs when Mana and Indriya become fatigued and withdraw from their respective objects. Different Acharyas have described Nidra through concepts such as dominance of Tamas, involvement of Kapha, relaxation of Manovaha Srotas, and detachment of the mind from sensory activities. Proper sleep is described as Sukhakara, Pushtikara, Balyakara, Vrishya, Jnanakara, and Jeevanakara, showing its role in maintaining both physical and mental health. Disturbance of sleep, known as Nidranash, is caused by factors such as Ati Chinta, Ati Krodha, Ati Bhaya, Ati Vyayama, Ati Upavasa, Rukshanna Sevana, uncomfortable sleeping habits, Vata Vriddhi, Pitta Vriddhi, Dhatukshaya, and mental stress. In the present era, irregular lifestyle, excessive screen exposure, late-night work, improper food habits, stress, and lack of routine make Nidranash an important lifestyle disorder. Its symptoms include Jrumbha, Angamarda, Tandra, Shiroroga, Shirogaurava, Akshigaurava, Glani, Bhrama, and Apakti. Ayurvedic management focuses on Nidana Parivarjana, proper Ahara, suitable Vihara, mental relaxation, and therapies like Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Shirobasti, Padabhyanga, and Nasya. Thus, Ayurveda provides a holistic approach for understanding and managing Nidranash by correcting diet, lifestyle, mental stress, and Dosha imbalance.