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“Physiological aspects of Nidra with special reference to different
Dehik Prakriti.”
Dr. Punita Sharma*
1
, Dr. Shubha Kaushal
2
, Dr. P.C. Mangal
3
1
Associate Professor, Kriya Sharira, IAS & R, SKAU, Kurukshetra, Haryana, Punjab, India
2
Associate Professor, IAS & R, SKAU, Kurukshetra, Haryana, Punjab, India
3
Professor, IAS & R, SKAU, Kurukshetra, Haryana, Punjab, India.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.12110065
Received: 10 November 2025; Accepted: 20 November 2025; Published: 08 December 2025
ABSTRACT
Background
Ayurveda defines Nidra as a physiological state of rest that rejuvenates the Sharira, Mana and Indriya. Nidra
plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, preventing major diseases, and ensuring both physical and
mental well-being. Insufficient sleep is associated with the development of various clinical disorders. . In the
contemporary era, where lifestyle disorders are on the rise, Nidra stands as a fundamental aspect of health that
requires thorough examination.
Aim
This is a review article to emphasize the concept of Nidra and its physiological impact with different Dehik
Prakriti.
Materials and Methods
A comprehensive literature review was conducted using available Ayurvedic texts and relevant scholarly
articles related to Nidra and sleep.
Conclusion
Various Ayurvedic Samhitas highlight that individuals with different Dehik Prakriti exhibit distinct sleep
patterns. Those with Kapha Prakriti are reported to have deep and restorative sleep, whereas individuals with
Vata and Pitta Prakriti experience comparatively lighter and reduced sleep.
Clinical Significance
Ayurveda considers Nidra as one of the three fundamental pillars of life (Trayopastambha). Classical texts
provide an extensive understanding of Nidra, detailing its classification and physiological implications. Sleep
is not merely a passive state but a critical physiological process with a profound impact on overall health.
Understanding Nidra and its variations according to Prakriti is essential for early diagnosis and management of
sleep disorders, thereby contributing to holistic healthcare.
Keywords: Nidra, Prakriti, Sleep, Physiology, etc
INTRODUCTION
Ayurveda views sleep (Nidra) as essential for health and happiness, stemming from a relaxed mind. In
Ayurvedic texts, sleep, along with diet (Ahara) and celibacy (Brahmacharya), is likened to the three legs of a
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stool, forming a foundation of support. Termed as the three Upasthambha, these factors play a vital role in
maintaining overall health and balance according to Ayurvedic principles.
Sleep (Nidra) is a vital, naturally endowed phenomenon that plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological
and psychological equilibrium. It is considered one of the three fundamental pillars (Trayopastambha) of life in
Ayurveda. As emphasized by Acharya Charaka, sleep functions in accordance with the body's innate
biological rhythms, also known as the biological clock in modern context. When this natural harmony of sleep
is disrupted, it directly impacts overall health and well-being.
Modern scientific literature aligns with this classical Ayurvedic understanding. According to the Encyclopedia
of Mental Health, sleep is described as a time-bound physiological state that is essential for the rest and
recovery of both body and mind. During this period, sensory perception and motor activity are temporarily
suspended, a concept that mirrors the Ayurvedic explanation of sleep being a state of temporary withdrawal
from the external environment, allowing internal systems to rejuvenate.
Despite extensive research, sleep continues to be a subject of inquiry in both ancient and contemporary
medical sciences. Fundamental questions such as what exactly is sleep, how does it occur, and what are its
precise roles in health maintenance and disease management remain areas of ongoing investigation. Various
theories—ranging from neurochemical regulation, circadian rhythm synchronization, to psycho-physiological
models—have been proposed to explain the nature of sleep and its disturbances. These disruptions can
manifest in numerous disorders and have been well-documented in both Ayurvedic texts and modern medical
sciences, highlighting the importance of proper sleep in preventing and managing diseases.
Modern science and Ayurveda recognize the significance of sleep for health and well-being. Ayurveda
emphasizes the importance of sleep for mental relaxation and overall health. Acharya Charaka discusses sleep
extensively, highlighting its benefits and management techniques. Insomnia Disorder, according to Charaka, is
associated with imbalanced Vata activity, leading to symptoms like muscle wasting and difficulty breathing.
Recent advancements in sleep research’s have highlighted the links between sleep deprivation and increased
risks of various health issues, including Hypertension, Diabetes, Obesity, Depression, Heart attack, and Stroke.
Some researchers are investigating potential connections between inadequate sleep and weakened immune
function. Therefore, there is a pressing need to understand the co relation between Prakriti and Nidra .
Aim:
To study, the Physiology of Nidra with special reference to different Dehik Prakriti.
Objectives
To study the relation between Nidra and different Dehik Prakriti.
Materials And Method
The literature review was compiled from available Ayurvedic texts such as Samhitas (Charak Samhita, Sushrut
samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Astanga sangraha, Sharangdhar Samhita). The search for articles was also
conducted on online databases including PubMed and Google Scholar with keywords - physiology of Nidra
and sleep. And four such relatable articles were found whose insights were useful while reviewing our topic.
Etymology of the Term ‘Nidra’:
[
1
]
The Sanskrit word ‘Nidra’ is a feminine noun derived from the root verb ‘Dra’, combined with the prefix
‘Ni’. According to classical Sanskrit grammar, ‘Dra’ carries meanings such as undesirable, to run, or to make
haste, while ‘Gatau’ implies movement or leading. When combined, the term reflects a state that is considered
undesirable or one from which there is a tendency to withdraw—hence the name ‘Nidra’, denoting sleep.
[
2
]
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The grammatical derivation follows the rule ‘Ataschopasarge’, a sutra from Panini's grammar, which allows
the formation of this compound word.
[
3
]
The prefix ‘Ni’ in Sanskrit implies a downward motion or a lowering,
and it is linguistically related to the English word ‘nether’, as in netherworld, indicating a state of descent or
inactivity. The suffix ‘Dra’ is thought to be etymologically connected to the English word ‘drowsy’, which
describes a state of semi-consciousness, reduced alertness, or calm inactivity—attributes closely associated
with the condition of sleep.
[
4
]
Additionally, as referenced in the Shabdakalpadruma (a classical Sanskrit lexicon), ‘Nidra’ also implies a
condition that may invite ridicule or contempt from others, likely due to its association with unawareness or
vulnerability during the sleeping state.
[
5
]
|
Synonyms of ‘Nidra’ :
Various classical texts in Sanskrit literature and Ayurveda have described multiple synonyms for Nidra, each
highlighting different aspects of the sleep state.
According to the Amarkosha
[5]
, a renowned Sanskrit thesaurus, four primary synonyms are listed:
1. Shayanam – the act of lying down or resting
2. Swapah – a state of sleep or unconsciousness
3. Svapnah – the dream state
4. Samvesh – the condition of being enveloped or immersed (in sleep)
In the Vaidyaka Shabda Sindhu, three additional synonyms are mentioned:
[
6
]
1. Sambhashah – often interpreted as internal dialogue or mental withdrawal
2. Suptih – the actual act of sleeping or slumber
3. Swapanam – dreaming or the experience during sleep
The lexicon Vachaspatyam provides more poetic and symbolic names for Nidra, portraying it through
metaphorical and divine representations:
[
7
]
1. Rudrapatni – consort of Rudra, symbolizing a divine force
2. Kalagni – associated with the destructive fire of time
3. Singhyogini – a mystical or tantric form
4. Abhimanini – the possessive or prideful one
5. Kali – linked with the goddess Kali, often representing darkness or stillness
6. Tamasi – signifying darkness or inertia, a quality of Tamas
Acharya Sushrut, in his classical treatise, also provides synonymous terms for sleep:
[
8
]
1. Shayanam
2. Swapah
3. Sushupti – deep sleep or the state of complete unconsciousness
4. Vaishnavi Maya – an illusion or cosmic play associated with Lord Vishnu, indicating the illusory
nature of the sleep state
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In the Charaka Samhita
[
9
]
, the word Bhutadhatri is used poetically as a synonym for Nidra, meaning “the
nourisher of all beings,” highlighting the rejuvenating and nurturing role of sleep in maintaining life and
health.
Definition of Nidra
According to the Mandukya Upanishad, Nidra refers to a state in which the Atma neither dreams nor harbours
desires, a condition known as Susupti.
[
10
]
| ||||
[ - . ]
According to Acharya Charaka and commentators like Chakrapani and Gangadhar, when both the mind and
soul become tired or inactive, and the sensory and motor organs also become inactive, then a person naturally
falls asleep.
[
11
]
Similarly, Acharya Sushrut explained that sleep takes place when Tamas envelops the Hridaya,
the centre of consciousness.
[
12
]
Sleep can be defined as a temporary state of unconsciousness, from which an
individual can be awakened by appropriate sensory stimuli.
[
13
]
Mechanism of Nidra
Acharya Sushrut claims that Hridaya is the location of Chetana's seat. A surplus of Tamo Guna causes people
to sleep, whereas an excess of Satva Guna causes people to become aware of their internal and external
environment.
[
14
]
As explained by Acharya Charak, people go into a state of sleep when their minds, senses, and
motor organs worn out and separate themself from Atma.
[
15
]
According to Ashtanga Sangraha, when a person
falls asleep, their mind loses its sense organs due to exhaustion and their Manovaha Srotas accumulate with
Sleshma.
[
16
]
According to Acharya Sharangadhara, Nidra results from the aggravation of Kapha-Doṣha and
Tamoguṇa.
[
17
]
In Modern Terms
The brain is the primary site of the most noticeable physiological changes that occur during sleep. The brain
uses far less energy when we sleep than when we are awake, especially when we are in non-REM sleep. The
brain restores its supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the chemical used for the short-term storage and
transportation of energy, in areas that are less active. This decrease has a substantial effect on total energy
consumption because the brain uses 20% of the body's energy when in a peaceful wakeful state. Humans
secrete growth hormone in little spurts when they sleep in sluggish waves. Furthermore, prolactin secretion is
linked to all forms of sleep, including rest during the day.
[
18
]
The brain's hypothalamus contains a collection of nerve cells called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which
is home to our body's biological clock. The hormone melatonin, which promotes drowsiness, is secreted under
the control of the SCN. The circadian rhythm is the process by which the SCN instructs the brain to create
more melatonin when there is less light present. As a result, the cycle of sleep and wakefulness aligns with the
natural cycle of day and night.
Types of Nidra
Ayurvedic text
Ashtanga Hridaya remarks about four types of sleep. They are; Mithya, Atiyoga, Hina and Samyak
yogaroopa.
[
19
]
Ashtanga Sangraha comments about seven types of sleep. They are; Kala swabava, Amayaja, Chittakedodbava,
Dehakedodbhava, Krodhodbava, Agantubava and Tamobava.
[
20
]
Three categories are recognized by Acharya Sushrut; Vaishnavi, Tamasi and Vaikariki.
[12]
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Charak Samhita cites seven types of sleep. They are; Tamobhava, Sleshm-samudbhava, Manah Sharira Sram
Sambhava, Agantuki, Vyadhi-Anuvartini, Ratri Svabhava Prabhava.
[
21
]
Modern text
Sleep is categorized into two main types:
[
22
]
1. Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) Sleep – According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine
(AASM), NREM sleep is divided into three stages: N
1
, N
2
, and N
3
. The final stage, N
3
, is also known as
delta sleep or slow-wave sleep. A typical sleep progression follows this sequence: N
1
→ N
2
→ N
3
→ N
2
→ REM.
2. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep – This stage occurs when a person transitions back to stage 2 or 1
after experiencing deep sleep.
A full sleep cycle generally lasts between 90 and 100 minutes, and an average night's sleep consists of 4 to 5
complete cycles. Each cycle contains about five phases, with the first four dedicated to NREM sleep before
transitioning into the REM stage.
Stage 1: The first stage of Non-REM sleep marks the transition from wakefulness to sleep. This phase
typically lasts less than 10 minutes and is distinguished by a slowing heart rate, reduced breathing, minimal
eye movement, and muscle relaxation.
Stage 2: This stage of Non-REM sleep is a lighter sleep phase that precedes deeper sleep and lasts around 20
minutes. During this stage, both heart rate and breathing continue to slow down, while the brain begins
producing short bursts of rapid, rhythmic activity known as sleep spindles.
Stage 3 (N3): Previously classified as stages 3 and 4, this is the deepest stage of Non-REM sleep, lasting
between 20 and 40 minutes. At this point, the heart rate and breathing slow to their lowest levels, and muscles
are so relaxed that waking up becomes difficult. This stage is often referred to as delta sleep or slow-wave
sleep.
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep: Occurring about 90 minutes after falling asleep, REM sleep is the
deepest stage of sleep. It is marked by rapid eye movements, almost complete muscle paralysis, and a high
likelihood of dreaming.
Timing of Nidra
According to Ashtanga Sangraha, since Tamo guna is more abundant at night, sleep, which is common
everywhere, manifests at night.
[
23
]
According to Ashtanga Hridaya, it is important to follow the proper sleep
schedule for the right amount of time and to make up for any time spent awake at night by sleeping for half of
that period without eating.
[
24
]
According to Kaiyadeva Nighantu, the best time to sleep is about six hours after
sunset, following the first two Yamas. According to Ayurveda, a healthy person usually sleeps during the
night, a phenomenon known as Ratri Svabhava Prabhava. Avoiding sleep in the early and late hours of the
night and waking up before daylight are advised.
[
25
]
Childhood, characterized by Kapha dominance, naturally
involves longer sleep durations, which are crucial for proper growth and development. During the middle
phase of life, governed by Pitta, the need for sleep decreases significantly. As aging occurs and Vata becomes
predominant, sleep duration naturally declines.
[
26
]
Criteria for Better Sleep
Acharya Yogaratnakara recommends walking 100 steps after dinner before going to bed. Initially, one should
lie in a recumbent posture, take eight breaths, shift to the right lateral position for 16 breaths, then switch to the
left lateral position for 32 breaths before settling into any preferred posture. The left lateral position is ideal for
digestion, as 'Jatharagni' is located in the Nabhi region.
[
27
]
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Ayurveda provides guidelines for improving sleep quality, advising against uneven, narrow, or pillow less
beds and recommending against sleeping on the back. A soft, comfortable mattress at knee level is ideal.
Positive thoughts should be maintained at bedtime and upon waking, while negative thoughts should be
avoided.
[
28
]
Sleeping in a relaxed posture on a comfortable bed reduces fatigue, calms Vata Dosha, promotes sleep,
enhances memory (Dhriti), acts as an aphrodisiac, and supports overall body growth. Gentle massage
(Samvahana) has sedative and aphrodisiac effects, alleviates Kapha and Vata Doshas, reduces fatigue, and
soothes the body.
[
29
]
Significance of Nidra
Nidra plays a crucial role in determining various aspects of life, including happiness, health, strength,
knowledge, and longevity. Proper sleep (Samyak Nidra) promotes well-being, strength, intellect, and vitality,
while improper sleep (Asamyak Nidra) leads to unhappiness, weakness, and ill health. Acharya Charaka
emphasized Nidra as a therapeutic tool, essential for recovery from leanness, stress relief, and overall
nourishment, similar to the importance of food.
[
30
]
Sleep is not just rest but a vital process for maintaining
health and well-being.
[
31
,
32
,
33
]
Prakriti
| ||||
[ - . ]
In Ayurved acharyas explains that Prakriti is formed, based on the dominance of one, two, or all three Doshas
(Vata, Pitta, Kapha) during conception. This results in different types of Prakriti known as Dosha Prakriti.
[
34
]
Individuals with balanced Vata, Pitta & Kapha tend to maintain normal health. However, those with a
dominance of one or two Doshas (Vatala, Pittala, Sleshamala, or combinations like Vata-Pitta, Vata-Kapha,
Pitta-Kapha) are more prone to specific health issues related to their predominant Dosha, despite appearing
healthy. For instance, a person with a Vata-dominant Prakriti may experience body part cracking due to Vata's
influence, illustrating how the inherent Dosha balance at birth influences one's susceptibility to certain
conditions.
- ||||
[ /- ]
Great Ayurvedic surgeon Sushrut stated that the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), which determine an individual's
Prakriti , remain stable throughout life and do not change except in cases of severe decline .
[
35
]
| ||||
[ - . ]
Effect of Doshas on Nidra
Sleep patterns vary among individuals, as no two people experience identical sleep cycles. Each person has a
unique physiological makeup that influences the quality, duration, and characteristics of their sleep.
[
36
]
, () ;
;
||||
[ Sushrut - . ]
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Vata Dosha and Sleep
|
, , ,
, ,
, ,
;
|||| ||||
[ - . ]
- | ||||
[ / - ]
|||| |
|||| |
|||| (
| ) ||||
[ - . ]
Individuals with Vata dominance tend to have irregular and fragmented sleep patterns. Their sleep cycles are
often short, and they may experience disturbances such as sleep talking, sleepwalking, or teeth grinding. Their
dreams typically have a light, airy nature, often involving flying or floating sensations. Due to their tendency
toward light sleep, they wake up easily during the night and may struggle to fall back asleep. Vata-dominant
individuals generally require around 6 to 7 hours of sleep for optimal rest.
[
37
,
38
,
39
]
Pitta Dosha and Sleep
| , , ,
, , , ;
, , , , ; ,
; ; ;
||||
[ - . ]
- | ||||
[ / - ]
||||
| ||||
| ||||
( | ) ||||
[ - . ]
People with a predominant Pitta Dosha experience relatively moderate yet light sleep. Although they get a
sufficient amount of rest, they often compromise on sleep when engaged in work or other activities. Their
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dreams tend to be intense, vivid, and sometimes aggressive. If they wake up at night, they usually find it easy
to go back to sleep unless their mind is overly active or stressed. Those with Pitta dominance typically need 7
to 8 hours of sleep.
[
40
,
41
,
42
]
Kapha Dosha and Sleep
| ,
, , ,
, , , ,
, , ,
|
||||
[ - . ]
- | ||||
[ / - ]
|||| |
||||
| |||| (
| |||| |
) ||||
[ - . ]
Kapha-dominant individuals enjoy deep, restful sleep and often feel heavy and sluggish upon waking. Even
though they do not require excessively long sleep durations, they have a tendency to oversleep if undisturbed.
This can lead to a feeling of lethargy upon waking. People with a Kapha constitution generally need 8 to 9
hours of sleep to maintain balance and well-being.
[
43
,
44
,
45
]
DISCUSSION
Nidra is a fundamental aspect of health, recognized as one of the three pillars of life in Ayurveda, alongside
Ahara and Brahmacharya. In the modern era, sleep has gained significant attention due to its crucial role in
maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Ayurveda emphasizes Nidra not merely as a passive
state but as an active and restorative phase necessary for sustaining life and promoting overall health.
The Ayurvedic classics, including Charaka Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, provide a
detailed understanding of Nidra. These texts classify sleep based on its causative factors and effects on the
body and mind. Charaka Samhita categorizes sleep into physiological (Swabhavika Nidra), pathological (due
to imbalance of Doshas like Tamobhava, Kaphaja Nidra), and sleep induced by external factors (like drug-
induced sleep). Sushrut further describes the physiological role of sleep in tissue repair, mental clarity, and
metabolic balance.
From a physiological perspective, Nidra is considered essential for cellular rejuvenation, enhancing Ojas, and
ensuring the smooth functioning of Dhatus. It influences hormonal balance, digestion, immune strength, and
mental stability. Samyak Nidra promotes Sukha, Bala and Jivana, whereas Asamyak Nidra leads to Dukha,
Karshya and various health disorders.
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In the contemporary world, increasing stress levels, erratic work schedules, and digital exposure have disrupted
natural sleep patterns, leading to lifestyle disorders like insomnia, metabolic syndrome, and mental health
issues. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to restoring healthy sleep through Dinacharya, Ritucharya and the
use of herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Tagara, which promote natural and restorative sleep.
Thus, Nidra is not just a state of rest but a key determinant of health, longevity, and overall vitality, making it
imperative to examine and regulate sleep for a balanced and disease-free life. The concept of Tamodbhava
Nidra, from a modern perspective, aligns with a comatose state, where an individual is unable to carry out
virtuous activities. Sleshma Samudbhava Nidra can be associated with drowsiness induced by substances such
as antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. Nidra resulting from Sharira Srama
Sambhava corresponds to ATP breakdown in the body, leading to an accumulation of adenosine, which
promotes sleep. Increased physical activity during the day also contributes to better sleep at night. Agantuki
Nidra refers to cases where the cause of sleep remains unidentified, sometimes serving as a precursor to death.
The concept of Vyadhi Anuvartini, in a modern context, relates to cytokines produced by immune cells during
infections, which induce sleep. Ratri Svabhava Prabhava Nidra aligns with sleep regulated by melatonin, a
hormone that is produced at night and degraded during daylight.
In modern science, sleep is categorized into NREM and REM phases, consisting of five distinct stages. The
encroachment of work hours into sleep time, coupled with rising stress levels, has contributed to a decline in
overall sleep duration. Just as a balanced diet is essential for well-being, adequate sleep plays a crucial role in
maintaining optimal health. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to the deterioration of a healthy individual's
condition, increasing the risk of various diseases. Understanding sleep patterns is vital for the early detection
of sleep disorders, highlighting its importance in modern healthcare.
Relation between Deha Prakriti and Nidra
The Acharyas, in the Samhitas, have described the symptoms of Nidra based on individuals with Ek Doshaj
Prakriti, where a single Dosha dominates. Elements such as stress, lifestyle, profession, mental state, and
Manas Prakriti play a significant role in shaping Nidra patterns. Additionally, hereditary and developmental
aspects—including Jatyadi Prakriti, as well as physiological influences like Shukra, Shonit, Garbhashaya,
Kaal, and Matru Ahar-Vihar—contribute to the overall constitution of an individual. These factors collectively
impact the balance of Manas and Sharir Doshas, leading to potential disruptions in physiological functions,
including sleep regulation.
Vata-dominant individuals tend to sleep less due to the inherent qualities of Vata dosha, which include ruksha,
laghu, chala, sukshma and ashukari. These characteristics affect both the mind and body, making such
individuals prone to light and easily disturbed sleep. They often experience restlessness, overthinking, and
mental hyperactivity, particularly at night, which interferes with their ability to fall and stay asleep.
Additionally, their heightened sensitivity to stress, irregular routines, and external stimuli like noise or light
further aggravates Vata and disrupts sleep. In Ayurveda, restful sleep is primarily governed by Kapha dosha,
known for its heavy, stable, and calming nature. Since Vata is the opposite of Kapha in quality, an excess of
Vata reduces the calming influence necessary for deep, restorative sleep. As a result, Vata-predominant
individuals often experience shorter, lighter, and more fragmented sleep patterns unless they follow routines
and diets that help to pacify Vata.
[
46
,
47
]
According to Sharangadhara Samhita, a person of Pitta Prakriti is
described as intelligent, prone to sweating, quick-tempered, and sometimes experiences premature greying of
hair (akalapalita). In terms of sleep, it is mentioned that such individuals often have vivid dreams, sometimes
even involving light or fire, indicating heightened internal activity and tejas (fire element). Pitta, being hot,
sharp, and intense by nature, influences the mental state, often leading to moderate but not excessive sleep.
Unlike Kapha types who tend to sleep deeply and Vata types who sleep lightly or insufficiently, Pitta
individuals usually sleep for a reasonable duration but may wake up feeling hot, irritable, or mentally
overactive. Their sleep can be disturbed by factors such as heat, late-night mental work, or emotional stress.
Hence, Pitta-dominant individuals benefit from a cooling and calming bedtime routine, such as avoiding spicy
foods at night, reducing screen time, and sleeping in a cool, peaceful environment to maintain balanced and
restful sleep.
33
In relation to Kaphaj Dehik Prakriti individuals, Excessive intake of fatty and oily foods results
in an abnormal buildup of Medas (body fat) and aggravation of Kapha Dosha in the body. According to
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Ayurvedic principles, this imbalance leads to Srotorodha—obstruction in various bodily channels (srotas)—
which in turn hampers the free flow of vital energies and nutrients. As a result, individuals may experience
symptoms such as a sense of heaviness, reduced physical agility, sluggishness, and a lack of motivation. One
of the prominent manifestations of this Kapha dominance is AtiNidra or hypersomnolence, characterized by an
excessive tendency to sleep beyond physiological needs. This not only affects daily productivity but can also
contribute to a worsening cycle of metabolic disorders and lifestyle-related diseases. Therefore, maintaining a
balanced diet and regulating Kapha is essential for preserving alertness and overall vitality.
[
48
]
DISCUSSION
based Dosha Vriddhi Kshaya over sleep quality
According to Sushruta Samhita, Nidra is deeply influenced by the balance or imbalance of the three doshas—
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha carries specific gunas that affect the body and mind, and their disturbance
can lead to characteristic changes in sleep patterns.
[
49
]
When Vata dosha is aggravated (vata vriddhi), it leads to conditions such as Nidranasha (insomnia or complete
loss of sleep). This is because Vata is light, mobile, and dry in nature. These qualities create restlessness,
anxiety, overthinking, and an inability to calm the mind, all of which interfere with falling asleep or
maintaining continuous sleep. People with Vata imbalance often wake up frequently, sleep lightly, or suffer
from racing thoughts, especially at night.
In cases of Pitta vriddhi (increase in Pitta dosha), the individual typically experiences Alpa Nidra, or reduced
and disturbed sleep. Pitta, being hot, sharp, and intense, affects the mind by increasing irritability, ambition,
and mental activity. Though these individuals may fall asleep, their sleep tends to be short, fragmented, or
accompanied by vivid or disturbing dreams. They may wake up feeling hot, thirsty, or mentally agitated,
especially during the Pitta kala (midnight to early morning).
Conversely, Kapha vriddhi (increased Kapha dosha) is associated with Tandra (drowsiness) and excessive
sleep (AtiNidra). Kapha is heavy, stable, cool, and moist—qualities that promote grounding and calmness,
which are conducive to deep sleep. When Kapha is in excess, it dulls the senses, slows down metabolism, and
increases lethargy. This leads to a constant feeling of heaviness, desire to sleep during the day, and prolonged
night time sleep. Though sleep in Kapha dominance may be deep, it is often non-refreshing and makes the
person feel sluggish upon waking.
In summary, Vata aggravation leads to insomnia, Pitta to short and disturbed sleep, and Kapha to excessive
sleep and drowsiness. Proper sleep hygiene in Ayurveda involves pacifying the aggravated dosha through diet,
lifestyle, and therapies to restore balanced sleep, which is considered one of the pillars of health
(Trayopasthambha).
CONCLUSION
Understanding the patient's Dehik Prakriti and assessing the state of doshic imbalance plays a pivotal role in
the Ayurvedic management of sleep disorders. Since sleep is closely influenced by the predominance of Vata,
Pitta, and Kapha Dehik prakriti, evaluating these factors allows for a more individualized and root-cause-based
approach to treatment. Vata dominance leads to insomnia and fragmented sleep, Pitta aggravation causes short
and disturbed sleep, while Kapha excess results in excessive sleep and lethargy. By identifying these patterns,
clinicians can recommend appropriate dietary, lifestyle, and herbal interventions to restore balance and
improve sleep quality. Therefore, the integration of prakriti and dosha analysis into clinical practice not only
enhances therapeutic effectiveness but also supports the broader goal of holistic and sustainable patient care in
Ayurveda.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION (IJRSI)
ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue XI November 2025
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Page 736
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