NIDRA VIPARYAYAM AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH IN YOUNG ADULTS: PROTOCOL FOR AN OBSERVATIONAL CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Nidra (sleep) is recognized in Ayurveda as one of the three Upastambhas (pillars supporting life) and is considered essential for the maintenance of health, strength, nourishment, happiness and mental well-being. Ayurveda describes sleep as a physiological state associated with the withdrawal of the mind and sensory faculties from their respective objects. Conversely, deviations from the normal pattern of sleep may be understood within the concept of Nidra Viparyayam, which may involve alterations in sleep timing, duration, quality and daytime sleep–wake behaviour. In contemporary society, irregular schedules, academic and occupational demands, psychological stress and increasing use of digital devices have contributed to disturbances in normal sleep patterns, particularly among young individuals. The present observational cross-sectional study aims to assess the pattern of Nidra Viparyayam and determine its association with physical and mental health among individuals aged 16–30 years. A total of 300 participants fulfilling the predefined eligibility criteria and willing to provide informed consent will be enrolled. Sleep patterns will be assessed using the Nidra Viparyaya Questionnaire, while overall health and selected mental factors will be evaluated using the Swasthya Assessment Scale and Manasa Bhava assessment, respectively. Participants will be categorized according to their sleep-pattern scores into groups representing greater and lesser manifestations of Nidra Viparyayam. Physical and mental health parameters will subsequently be assessed and compared between the groups. Appropriate statistical methods will be applied to determine the association between altered sleep patterns and selected health outcomes. The study is expected to provide an integrated understanding of Nidra Viparyayam from both Ayurvedic and contemporary health perspectives and to identify its relationship with selected physical and mental health disturbances. The findings may enhance understanding of the health implications of disturbed sleep and provide a basis for preventive approaches emphasizing appropriate sleep practices, regularity of sleep–wake schedules and maintenance of healthy daily routines among young individuals.