Abstract

AN ANATOMICAL STUDY OF AJNA CHAKRA WITH THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF BHRAMARI PRANAYAMA AND SHIROABHYANG IN ANIDRA (INSOMNIA)

Dr. Ravindra Kumar Bhargawa*, Dr. Purushottam Das Sharma, Dr. Deepa

Abstract

Background: Anidra (Insomnia) is a common psychosomatic disorder characterized by difficulty in sleep initiation, maintenance, and impaired daytime functioning. Nonpharmacological interventions focusing on autonomic regulation and mental relaxation are increasingly being explored for its management. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the therapeutic efficacy of Bhramari Pranayama, Shiroabhyanga, and their combined application in the management of Anidra. Materials and Methods: Ninety patients diagnosed with Anidra were randomly divided into three equal groups. Group A received Bhramari Pranayama, Group B underwent Shiroabhyanga, and Group C received combined therapy. Subjective sleep parameters were assessed before and after intervention using the Athens Insomnia Scale. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate intra-group and inter-group outcomes. Results: All three groups showed statistically significant improvement in sleep-related parameters. Group A demonstrated marked improvement in sleep induction and reduction in nocturnal awakenings, while Group B showed better improvement in sleep maintenance and early morning awakening. Group C exhibited consistently superior outcomes across all parameters, with percentage relief ranging from 62.19% to 70.55% and uniformly high statistical significance. Conclusion: Bhramari Pranayama and Shiroabhyanga are effective individual therapies for the management of Anidra; however, their combined use provides a synergistic and more comprehensive therapeutic benefit, improving both nocturnal sleep quality and daytime functioning.

Keywords: Anidra, Insomnia, Bhramari Pranayama, Shiroabhyanga, Sleep quality, Athens Insomnia Scale, Non-pharmacological therapy, Ayurveda.