ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH THROUGH NIDRA: A REVIEW

Sleep is the physiological state of the body. Modern lifestyles often lead to unhealthy habits due to busy schedules, characterized by "hurry, worry, curry," which adversely affect routines like exercise, diet, and sleep. Inadequate or poor sleep results in tiredness, lack of focus, exhaustion, anxiety, irrational thoughts, and hallucinations. World estimates for the prevalence of anxiety and mood disorders are significantly high, around 25%. Adequate sleep is essential for a peaceful mind, promoting concentration, emotional stability, cognitive function, and motivational harmony. In Ayurveda, Nidra (Sleep) has been called Vaishnavi by Sushruta which means that just as Vishnu is the basis and nourisher of the creation, likewise sleep is the nurturer of the body. This study aims to evaluate the significance of Nidra (sleep) in maintaining mental health according to Ayurvedic principles. This research involves a review of Ayurvedic texts, sleep studies, various research papers, and practices related to improving sleep quality. Quality sleep influences digestion, metabolism, and nourishment of mental and physical health. Ayurveda highlights sleep as a crucial pillar of life, emphasizing therapies such as padabhyanga (foot massage), shirobasti, shirodhara (head oil therapy), and diet for improving sleep quality and maintaining quality. Sufficient sleep routines can pacify Vata and Pitta dosha, calm the mind, and induce relaxation, leading to deeper, more rejuvenating sleep. Good sleep enhances Kapha and Oja, which are crucial for proper mental functioning. Thus, Ayurveda provides a holistic and sustainable approach to addressing poor sleep quality and promoting overall well-being.