Ayurveda recognizes insomnia (Anidra or Nidranasha) as a Vata-related disorder
Ayurveda recognizes insomnia (Anidra or Nidranasha) as a Vata-related disorder, characterized by difficulty falling asleep, maintaining sleep, or waking up too early. Insomnia can be classified into three types based on duration:
1. Transient Insomnia (lasting from a night to a week)
2. Short-term Insomnia (lasting two to three weeks)
3. Chronic Insomnia (occurring most nights and lasting a month or more)
Insomnia can be caused by various factors, including:
- Substance abuse
- Disruption of circadian rhythms
- Uncomfortable sleeping environment
- Psychiatric and neurological conditions
- Biological factors (advancement in age)
- Sleep disordered breathing
- Chronic illness (menopause, diabetes, arthritis, etc.)
- Medication use
- Excessive computer work or watching television
Symptoms of insomnia include:
- Not feeling refreshed
- Inability to sleep despite being tired
- Daytime drowsiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating
- Impaired ability to perform normal activities
- Body ache and heaviness
If left untreated, insomnia can lead to complications like:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorder
- Fatal accidents
- Increased severity of chronic diseases (high blood pressure, diabetes, etc.)
Ayurvedic management of insomnia involves a holistic approach, including diet, lifestyle modifications, stress management, and herbal remedies.