PANCHAKARMA PATHWAYS TO PEACEFUL SLEEP: AYURVEDIC APPROACHES TO ANIDRA

Sleep is recognized in Ayurveda as a fundamental pillar of health and well-being. Modern lifestyles, characterized by stress, anxiety, and irregular dietary habits, have contributed to the high prevalence of insomnia. Stressful life events and certain personality traits further increase susceptibility to sleep disturbances. In Ayurvedic philosophy, the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—form the Tristhambha, or three pillars of life, while the Trayopasthambhas—Aahara (diet), Nidra (sleep), and Brahmacharya (abstinence)—serve as supporting pillars. Among these, sleep is essential for maintaining physiological and psychological balance, and its disruption can lead to multiple health complications. Ayurveda offers a range of therapies for managing Nidranasha (insomnia), as outlined by classical Acharyas. These include Snehana (oleation), Abhyanga (therapeutic massage), Samvahana (gentle massage), Murdhnitaila (oil therapy on the head), Padaabhyanga (foot massage), Shirobasti (oil retention therapy on the head), Shirodhara (continuous oil pouring on the forehead), and Nasya (nasal administration of medicated oils), all of which aim to restore balance and promote restful sleep.