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.
Ayurveda Initiative for Global Health 