Digital Lifestyle and Health: An Ayurvedic Perspective on Screen Time, Nidra and Manas — A Critical Review
Abstract
The rapid expansion of digital technology has transformed human lifestyle, communication, education, and occupational patterns. Excessive use of smartphones, computers, tablets, and digital media has introduced a new set of health concerns collectively associated with a sedentary digital lifestyle. Increased screen exposure, especially during evening and nighttime hours, has been linked with sleep disturbances, reduced attention span, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, visual strain, and altered cognitive functions. Modern research highlights the role of blue light exposure, circadian rhythm disruption, psychological stimulation, and reduced physical activity in producing these effects. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of balanced lifestyle through the concepts of Dinacharya, Nidra, Manas, and regulation of sensory activities (Indriya Nigraha). Excessive and inappropriate engagement with sensory objects is described as a form of Asatmya Indriyartha Samyoga and Prajnaparadha, which may disturb mental and physiological equilibrium. This review critically analyzes the impact of digital lifestyle on health through both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives. Classical Ayurvedic texts and recent scientific literature from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were reviewed. The analysis suggests that prolonged digital exposure may be correlated with disturbance of Vata Dosha, impairment of Manovaha Srotas, disturbed Nidra, and reduced mental stability. Ayurvedic approaches including lifestyle regulation, Dinacharya, yoga, meditation, Nasya, and Medhya Rasayana may provide preventive strategies for maintaining psychological and physiological balance in the digital era.
Keywords
Digital lifestyle, screen time, Nidra, Manas, Ayurveda, mental health, circadian rhythm