Ayurveda considers Nidra that is sleep to be one of the pillars that supports a healthy life. Good quality of sound sleep is essential to maintain well-being and immunity. Nidra is a natural urge which automatically signals the body and mind when rest is needed.

The circadian rhythm emphasizes sleeping early at night and waking up early too. Ayurveda follows the same and prioritizes the signals of the body clock. Dincharya, that is the Ayurvedic lifestyle recommends sleep quantity as per an individual Prakriti, e.g., a Kapha dominant person should not oversleep, 6-7 hours is sufficient.

Quality of sleep and correlation with health:

If one does not get sufficient sleep, various health issues arise. Initially, there are no signs and symptoms, but if constantly the sleep quality and quantity deteriorate, then the body becomes susceptible to different illnesses. The most common health complaints seen are:

• Migraines
• Body pain
• Lethargy
• Head heaviness
• Tension headache
• Nausea
• Hyperacidity
• Poor digestion
• Insomnia
• Poor concentration
• Low immunity
• Lack of energy

Ayurveda recommendations:

Ayurveda focuses on the root cause of diseases than merely treating the symptoms. In many health conditions, lack of good quality sleep is often the root cause. For effective disease reversal and prevention, the following recommendations are suggested:

• Early dinner – having dinner just after sunset and followed by sleeping three hours later is ideal. Avoid snacking after dinner.
• Having a cup of warm milk before bedtime helps to promote good quality of sleep. The use of cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg in milk is beneficial.
• Digital detox- switching off all the gadgets 30 mins before bedtime promotes sound sleep.
• Meditation- practicing meditation improves concentration and focus which is a brain training exercise. This channelizes the nervous system and gives a sense of deep nidra.
• Yoga Nidra – This Yoga practice is usually followed by Shavasana (corpse pose) which relaxes the physical body as well as soothes the nervous system by reducing stress.
• For disturbed sleep or delay in falling asleep easily, soothing, or slow instrumental music can be played before bedtime to create a sense of calmness.

Also, check out our blog on Ayurvedic Rejuvenation – Rasayana | theayurvedco