Abstract

SLEEPLESSNESS (NIDRANASH): CAUSE AND MANAGEMENT IN AYURVEDA PRESPECTIVE

*Dr. Sarika Yadav and Dr. Om Prakash Dadhich

Abstract

In Ayurveda Ahara (food), Nidra (sleep) and Brahmcharya (celibacy) are supposed to be the central factors for healthy and long life. Among them Nidra or sleep is necessary for maintaining proper psychosomatic health as it rejuvenates both mentally and physically. In Ayurveda classics many causes like Chinta (tension), Bhaya (fear), Vyayam (excessive exercise), Upvasa (fasting) can cause Nidranash (sleeplessness). Most of the causes which lead to Nidranash are Vata Dosha Prakopak. In Ayurveda classics as well as modern medical sciences many consequences of sleeplessness are described such as lack of concentration, lassitude, irritability, drowsiness. In long term if not properly treated it can lead to altered mental, emotional and social behaviour. Various Aacharya have mentioned many modalities for prevention and management of Nidranash like Dincharya Palan (obedience of day regimen), Abhyanga, Utsadan, Shirodhara etc. here an emphasis is made to understand the causes, consequences and treatment of Nidranash.

Keywords: psychosomatic health, Bhaya, Vyayam, Upvasa, Nidranasha, Dincharya.