Ayurvedic Concept Of Nidra And Its Modern Correlation: An Analytical Study
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Abstract
Background: Nidra (sleep) is one of the Trayopastambha (three supporting pillars of life) described in Ayurveda, essential for maintaining health and longevity. Classical Ayurvedic texts consider Nidra as a natural, physiological state crucial for Sharira (body) and Manas (mind) restoration. Acharyas have described its causative factors, physiological basis, types, and health implications of its disturbances. Understanding Nidra from both perspectives offers valuable insights into holistic health management. Aim: To critically analyze the Ayurvedic concept of Nidra and establish its correlation with modern physiological and clinical understanding of sleep. Objectives: To review Nidra as described in classical Ayurvedic texts with respect to definition, classification, causative factors, and benefits. To evaluate the pathophysiological basis of Nidranasha (insomnia) and Atinidra (hypersomnia) in Ayurveda. To correlate Ayurvedic principles of Nidra with modern neurophysiology and sleep medicine. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive review of Ayurvedic classical texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and relevant commentaries was undertaken. Modern literature was sourced from peer-reviewed journals, sleep medicine textbooks, and neurophysiology references. Comparative analysis was performed to identify convergences and divergences between Ayurvedic and modern perspectives. Results: Ayurveda emphasizes the role of Tamas and Kapha dominance, Mana–Indriya relaxation, and Hridaya (mind-heart axis) in the onset of Nidra. Modern science parallels these concepts with reduced sensory input, parasympathetic predominance, and neural regulation via the hypothalamus and reticular activating system. Both systems recognize the detrimental effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function, immunity, and metabolism. Ayurvedic descriptions of Nidranasha and Atinidra show close resemblance to modern sleep disorders such as insomnia and hypersomnia. Conclusion: The Ayurvedic concept of Nidra aligns significantly with modern physiological understanding of sleep, particularly in its restorative role and health implications of disturbances. Integrating Ayurvedic preventive and therapeutic measures, such as Dinacharya, Ratricharya, and Manonigraha, with modern sleep hygiene practices could enhance management strategies for sleep disorders.
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