UNDERSTANDING NIDRA AND SWAPNA THROUGH AYURVEDIC AND NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW
Gayathri M Prakash, Apeksha Panwar, Kavya Kala
International Journal of AYUSH July 4, 2025 DOI: 10.22159/prl.ijayush.v14i06.1401 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Literary review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key findings | The authors argue that Ayurvedic descriptions of Nidra and Swapna can be correlated with modern sleep science, citing proposed links such as Tamas with melatonin and Vata Dosha with dream content. They conclude that integrating Ayurvedic and neurophysiological perspectives may offer a deeper understanding of sleep and dreaming and contribute to holistic management of sleep disturbances and psychosomatic disorders. |
Abstract
Background: Nidra (sleep) and Swapna (dream) are integral physiological and psychological processes discussed extensively in Ayurvedic classics. Ancient seers recognized Nidra as one of the Trayopastambha (three pillars of life) essential for maintaining health. In the modern era, sleep and dreams are viewed through neurophysiological, behavioral, and cognitive lenses. A comprehensive understanding of these concepts through Ayurvedic and modern perspectives is vital to exploring their role in health maintenance and disease prevention.
Aim: And Objectives
Aim: To comprehensively analyze and correlate the concepts of Nidra and Swapna from Ayurvedic literature with modern neurophysiological understanding.
Objectives: To explore the classical Ayurvedic concepts of Nidra and Swapna with relevant references. To review the neurophysiological mechanisms of sleep and dream in modern science., To identify points of correlation and divergence between bo*th systems. To evaluate the clinical relevance of Ayurvedic principles in sleep health and dream interpretation. To suggest an integrative approach for better understanding and management of sleep-related disorders.
Methods: An extensive literary review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and other traditional commentaries. Modern medical literature, including neurophysiology textbooks, research journals, and clinical studies related to sleep science and dream analysis, was also reviewed. A comparative analytical approach was used to synthesize information.
Results: Ayurveda describes Nidra as a natural state caused by the withdrawal of the mind and senses, with types such as Manasharira Shrama Sambhava and Tamasika Nidra. Swapna is viewed as a manifestation of residual impressions (Samskaras) and Manasika Bhavas. Modern science classifies sleep into REM and non-REM stages and explores dreams as a product of limbic and cortical activity. Several correlations were identified, such as the role of Tamas and melatonin, the function of Vata Dosha in dream content, and psychosomatic links to sleep disorders.
Conclusion: The integration of Ayurvedic and neurophysiological views provides a deeper insight into the multidimensional nature of sleep and dreaming. This review supports the relevance of Ayurvedic wisdom in understanding modern sleep physiology and may contribute to holistic approaches in managing sleep disturbances and psychosomatic disorders.