Sleep is very essential for the brain and has even been considered a tonic for the brain. ‘Nidrayatam Sukham’, is a comparison of the state of sleep made by Charak to pleasure, peace and happiness, which indicates that only when both body and mind are disease-free and at peace, the pleasures of life can be experienced. This state of mind and body cannot be achieved without giving them adequate amount of rest. Sleep also provides natural immunity to people suffering from any disease. That is why rest is recommended to the ailing.
Today sleeplessness or insomnia has become common not only among adults, but among teenagers and children too. In addition to stress, insomnia is a result of over indulgence and lack of discipline in our lifestyles, junk food and excessive use of screens (cell phones, TV, computer etc.). It may start with just one late night and then another and before you know it you start finding it difficult to sleep.
Ayurveda (http://www.dhyanfoundation.com/ayurveda. php) prescribes Satapushpi (dill or sowa) to overcome the problem of insomnia.
If you have insomnia due to a nervous problem mix equal quantity of chamomile, aniseed and dill. Put 1tsp of the mixture steeped in 1/2 cup boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Add some honey and take it at bed time.
If it’s simple exhaustion that is causing it, then mix equal quantities of dill, pudina and saunf. Steep 1tsp of this mixture in 1/2 cup boiling water and have it with honey just before sleeping.
Massaging the soles of feet induces sleep.
Ensure that you don’t do any screen time at least half an hour before bedtime. Take your dinner at least an hour and a half before going to sleep.
Sanatan Kriya details the practice of Ujjai Pranayam and Yog Nidra, which are also excellent ways to tackle insomnia.
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Suggested Reading:
Sanatan Kriya, The Ageless Dimension details the causes, symptoms and effects of different kinds of sleeps as well as lack of sleep. The book also suggests remedies, practices and ayurvedic formulae to induce natural sleep for individual specific conditions.
