Insomnia, also known as Anidra or Nidranasha in Ayurveda, is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, maintaining sleep, or waking up too early. It can lead to fatigue, anxiety, depression, and lack of concentration. Ayurveda classifies insomnia into three types:
1. Transient Insomnia (lasting from a night to a week)
2. Short-term Insomnia (lasting two to three weeks)
3. Chronic Insomnia (occurring most nights and lasting a month or more)
Causes of insomnia include:
- Substance abuse
- Disruption of circadian rhythms
- Uncomfortable sleep environment
- Psychiatric and neurological conditions
- Biological factors (advancing age)
- Sleep disordered breathing
- Chronic illness
- Medication use
- Excessive computer work or watching TV
Symptoms of insomnia include:
- Not feeling refreshed
- Inability to sleep despite being tired
- Daytime drowsiness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating
- Impaired ability to perform normal activities
- Body ache and heaviness
Complications of insomnia include:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorder
- Fatal accidents
- Increased severity of chronic diseases (high blood pressure, diabetes)
Ayurvedic treatments for insomnia focus on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and promoting relaxation and stress relief through:
- Herbal remedies
- Panchakarma therapies
- Diet and lifestyle modifications
- Yoga and meditation practices
Consult an Ayurvedic doctor or practitioner for personalized guidance on managing insomnia and promoting overall health and well-being.
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