IMPACT OF NIDRA ON MANOVAHA SROTAS AND NERVOUS SYSTEM: AN INTEGRATED PHYSIOLOGICAL REVIEW

Abstract

Background: Sleep (Nidra) is recognized in Ayurvedic literature as one of the Trayopastambha (three essential pillars of life), alongside Ahara (food) and Brahmacharya (regulated conduct). It plays a vital role in maintaining the equilibrium of Manovaha Srotas (the channels responsible for mental functions) and the optimal functioning of the nervous system as understood in modern
physiology. This integrated physiological review aims to analyze the impact of Nidra on Manovaha Srotas through classical Ayurvedic concepts and to correlate these with contemporary neurophysiological mechanisms. Adequate and qualitative sleep supports Sharira (body) and Manas (mind) by nourishing Dhatus (tissues), regulating Doshas, and rejuvenating cognitive functions, memory consolidation, and emotional stability. Disturbances in Nidra can vitiate Vata Dosha, leading to derangement of Manovaha Srotas, manifesting as various psychosomatic disorders, stress-related conditions, and neurodegenerative diseases. Modern neuroscience supports this by demonstrating how sleep influences synaptic plasticity, neural detoxification via the glymphatic system, and hormonal modulation affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The review thus highlights the profound interconnectedness between classical Ayurvedic concepts and current scientific insights, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining healthy sleep patterns for the preservation of mental health and neurophysiological balance.