A CRITICAL REVIEW OF DINACHARYA DESCRIBED IN AYURVEDIC SAMHITA AND ITS RELEVANCE IN THE PREVENTION OF LIFESTYLE DISORDERS

Abstract

Background: Lifestyle disorders have become an important public-health concern because unhealthy dietary habits, inadequate physical activity, disturbed sleep, prolonged sedentary behaviour, psychological stress and irregular daily routines contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic disorders. Ayurveda gives major importance to preservation of health through Swasthavritta, particularly Dinacharya, which describes a systematic daily regimen according to physiological needs and natural biological rhythms. Practices such as Brahma Muhurta Jagarana, oral hygiene, Abhyanga, Vyayama, Snana, appropriate food habits, regulation of natural urges and disciplined conduct collectively provide a lifestyle-oriented approach to health promotion.

Aim and Objectives: To critically review Dinacharya described in major Ayurvedic Samhita and assess its possible relevance in the prevention of lifestyle disorders.

Materials and Methods: A conceptual review of Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya and other relevant Ayurvedic literature was undertaken. Classical principles of Dinacharya were analysed according to their preventive significance. Relevant contemporary literature concerning physical activity, sleep, circadian health, oral hygiene and lifestyle-related disease prevention was also considered.

Observations and Results: Dinacharya provides a comprehensive sequence of activities extending from awakening to sleep. Its major components regulate hygiene, physical activity, food behaviour, sleep and psychosocial conduct. Several of these principles show conceptual agreement with established lifestyle measures used for reducing modifiable risk factors of chronic disease.

Discussion: Regular practice of suitable components of Dinacharya may support Dosha balance, Agni, proper metabolic function, sleep regularity and healthy behavioural patterns. Its preventive relevance is strongest when interpreted as an integrated lifestyle framework rather than as proof that every individual classical procedure independently prevents a specific modern disease.

Conclusion: Dinacharya represents an important preventive concept of Ayurveda with considerable contemporary lifestyle relevance. Appropriate adaptation according to Prakriti, age, season, health status and occupation may support health promotion and prevention of lifestyle-related risk factors.