Abstract

AN AYURVEDIC REVIEW OF DIWASWAPN (DAY SLEEPING)

Dr. Anubhuti Singh, Dr. M.B. Pillewan and Dr. Sonali Biswas*

Abstract

Nidra has important role in healthy life. Good and sufficient sleep is necessary for health. A sound sleep in the night regenerates the power of the mind and body to maintain health, proficiency and emotional well-being. Acharya Charak describes Nidra in Astaninditiya Adhyaya Sutrasthan in Charak Samhita. Acharya Sushruta explains Nidra in Garbhvyakaranshariram, in Sharir Sthan Susruta Samhita. He describes Vaikarik Nidra (sleep disorders) along with chikitsa in same chapter. Vridh Vagbhatta of Astang Samgraha mentioned Nidra and Nidravikar along with treatment in Viruddhanannavijiyaniya adhyay. Astang Hridaya also mentioned Nidra and Nidravikar along with treatment in Annaraksha adhyay. In ayurved texts one should not sleep in the day nor keep late hours in the night. Having known both these acts to be injurious, the wise should observe moderation in sleep. Acharyas described Diwaswapn, indication of diwaswapn and contraindication of diwaswapn etc in samhita granthas. One should follow these rules for healthy living.

Keywords: Nidra, Vaikarik Nidra, Diwaswapn, Triupstambh.