DIGITAL ERA DISORDERS: AN AYURVEDIC PERSPECTIVE ON PATHOGENESIS, PREVENTION, AND MANAGEMENT

The rapid expansion of digital technology has reshaped human behaviour and lifestyle, leading to the emergence of several modern lifestyle disorders collectively termed Digital Era Diseases. Among these, techno-stress, screen addiction, and sleep disturbances have become increasingly prevalent across all age groups. Excessive screen exposure, information overload, and dependence on digital devices contribute to neurocognitive strain, behavioural dysregulation, and circadian rhythm disturbances. Current biomedical studies associate these conditions with dopamine reward-cycle imbalance, mental fatigue, blue-light-induced melatonin suppression, and chronic sympathetic activation. Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach for understanding these disorders through classical concepts such as Prajnaparadha, Atiyoga of Indriyas, Vata-Pitta prakopa, Manovaha Srotodushti, and Nidranasha. Techno-stress corresponds to mental strain resulting from the excessive utilisation of Manas and cognitive faculties; screen addiction aligns with Asatmya Indriyartha samyoga and Tamasika Vrittis; and sleep disorders reflect aggravated Vata and Pitta impairing natural sleep mechanisms. Ayurvedic management emphasises Nidana Parivarjan, incorporating digital fasting, reduction of screen time, and behavioural regulation. Therapeutic interventions include Vata-Pitta shamaka Ahara, Medhya herbs such as Brahmi, Ashwagandha, Sankhapushpi, etc., along with Rasayana formulations for cognitive stability. Lifestyle measures, including Dinacharya, evening relaxation practices, and screen-free routines, support circadian balance. Yoga, Pranayama (particularly Bhramari and Chandra-bhedana), mindfulness, and Yoga Nidra have been shown to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Panchakarma therapies like Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Nasya, and Netra tarpana further help restore mental equilibrium and relieve screen-induced strain.