Nidra as Bhūtadhātrī: An Integrative Analytical Study of Ayurvedic, Yogic, and Neuroscientific Perspectives

Background: Nidra (sleep) is described in Ayurveda as one of the Trayopastambha (three pillars of life), alongside Ahara (diet) and Brahmacharya (regulated conduct) [1]. It is revered as Bhūtadhātrī (the sustainer of beings), essential for nourishment, strength, immunity, mental clarity, fertility, and longevity [2]. Classical texts emphasize that disturbances in Nidra lead to disease, premature aging, cognitive impairment, infertility, and even early death [3]. While modern science views sleep as a neurophysiological process vital for homeostasis, Ayurveda and Yoga provide a more holistic explanation, correlating Nidra with sensory withdrawal (pratyāhāra) and balance of Prāṇavāyu. Aim: This study aims to critically analyze the concept of Nidra in Ayurveda, its yogic correlates, and neuroscientific explanations, to develop an integrative framework of understanding. Methodology: A conceptual and analytical study was undertaken through textual review of Caraka Saṃhitā, Suśruta Saṃhitā, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya regarding Nidra. Yogic literature, including Patañjali Yoga Sūtra, was reviewed for correlations with pratyāhāra and prāṇāyāma. Contemporary literature on sleep physiology and neuroscience was analyzed to identify parallels with Ayurvedic and Yogic descriptions. Results: Ayurveda describes Nidra as arising when the fatigued mind and senses withdraw from their objects [4]. Its benefits, types, causes of derangement, and regulation of day and night sleep are elaborated in classical texts [5]. Yoga conceptualizes Nidra as involuntary pratyāhāra, while practices like prāṇāyāma consciously facilitate this process. Neuroscience validates these mechanisms through studies on sensory gating, cortical deactivation, and vagal tone modulation. Conclusion:Nidra is not merely passive rest but an active restorative process, sustaining both body and mind. Bridging Ayurveda, Yoga, and neuroscience offers a holistic framework for understanding sleep and provides therapeutic insights for insomnia and lifestyle disorders. Keywords: Nidra, Ayurveda, Pratyāhāra, Prāṇavāyu, Prāṇāyāma, Sleep Neuroscience