AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON NIDRA (SLEEP) AND ITS SLEEPING PATTERN ON EEG (ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHY) – A REVIEW STUDY

Abstract

Background -Electroencephalography (EEG) is a pivotal tool in studying sleep patterns, providing insight into the electrical activity of the brain during different stages of sleep. In Ayurveda, Nidra (sleep) is considered one of the three pillars of health, with a detailed understanding of its types and implications on overall well-being. These abstract aims to integrate the Ayurvedic perspective of Nidra with EEG-based sleep studies to elucidate the comprehensive pattern of sleep. Objectives- To examine the patterns of Nidra through EEG analysis and correlate these patterns with the Ayurvedic understanding of sleep stages. Material & Methods -A systematic review of classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya was conducted to gather information on the Ayurvedic perspective of Nidra. Simultaneously, a review of contemporary scientific literature on EEG and sleep stages was performed. Data was synthesized to draw correlations between Ayurvedic descriptions and EEG patterns of sleep. Results-Nidra is classified into Svabhavika (natural sleep), Tamasika (sleep due to mental inertia), Vaikarika (sleep due to disease), and others based on causative factors. The balance of Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) is essential for proper sleep. EEG Patterns in Sleep - Sleep is broadly divided into Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) and Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stages. NREM sleep includes stages 1-3, characterized by progressively deeper sleep and distinct EEG patterns: stage 1 (theta waves), stage 2 (sleep spindles and K-complexes), and stage 3 (delta waves). REM sleep is characterized by low-amplitude, mixed-frequency brain waves like wakefulness, along with rapid eye movements. Conclusion -The integration of EEG analysis with Ayurvedic concepts of Nidra provides a comprehensive understanding of sleep patterns. Ayurvedic classifications of Nidra can be mapped onto modern EEG findings, offering a holistic approach to diagnosing and treating sleep disorders. Further interdisciplinary research could enhance the efficacy of sleep therapies by combining traditional wisdom with contemporary science.

Keywords -Nidra, Sleep, EEG, Tridosha, NREM, REM, Sleep Stages, Svabhavika Nidra, Tamasika Nidra, Vaikarika Nidra, Sleep Disturbances.