Sleep through the Ayurvedic lense

Sleep restores mind, body & digestion

In Ayurveda, sleep (nidra) is considered one of the three pillars of health, alongside food (ahara) and lifestyle (vihara). Our sleep reflects the balance of our Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Doshas. Ayurveda agrees that sleep is needed to rebuild tissue, replenish energy and calm the nervous system, clearing thoughts and emotions. The night is observed as the time our body integrates food and the lived experience.

The Ayurvedic Clock

Similar to the circadian rhythm, Ayurveda teaches that the day and night follow doshic cycles. From 6pm to 10pm we are on Kapha time and the body is naturally slowing down, thus being an ideal window to fall asleep. Between 10pm to 2am our body enters Pitta and turns inward to detox and repair and you will notice that staying up during these times can leas to restlessness and an increased appetite. The last stages of the night is reserved for Vata and extends from 2am to 6am. Our sleep becomes lighter as the mind slowly activates- it is ideal we wake during this time to avoid the heaviness of oversleeping.

Is your Dosha effecting your sleep?

If you are not sure what Dosha profile represents you check out this quiz.

If you are Vata dominant, you may be prone to light sleeping and waking during the night. It is advised to practice grounding routines, keeping warm and enjoying healthy oils in your evening meal. For the Pitta dominant, sleep is significantly influenced by the waking mind and you may find yourself feeling hot or restless around midnight. Pitta will benefit from cooling foods, herbal teas and early bedtimes. Kapha dominant Doshas are generally good sleepers but can often struggle to wake up. Having a light and easily digestible dinner will help to balance the tendency to oversleep.

Best Ayurvedic sleep practices

Eating your last meal at least 2-3 hours before bedtime is encouraged for a deeper rest alongside warm and grounding foods such as those listed in our menu below. It is best to voiding stimulants, alcohol and artificial light. Introducing calming practices such as Yin yoga or stretching, massage, navel oiling, herbal teas and early sleep and wake times helps regulate your nervous system and body clock, promoting deeper and more restorative rest.