Role of Yoga in Improving Sleep Quality: A Review of Classical Concepts and Modern Evidence
Abstract
Inadequate sleep commonly results in fatigue, poor
concentration, and reduced ability to carry out
everyday responsibilities. Yoga is frequently
recommended for relaxation, yet its contribution to
sleep management requires critical appraisal. This
narrative review integrates classical descriptions of
sleep and regulation of mental activity with
contemporary yoga research and current insomnia
guidance. It is based on selected literature and
focused verification of major claims rather than a
comprehensive systematic search. Ayurveda regards
sleep as a fundamental contributor to health, whereas
the Yoga Sutras discuss posture, breath regulation,
and disciplined attention. These concepts provide a
historical rationale for practice but cannot themselves
demonstrate clinical efficacy. Modern reviews
indicate that some adults report improved sleep
quality after yoga; however, findings vary with the
population, intervention, and assessment tool. Better
perceived sleep does not necessarily correspond to a
meaningful reduction in insomnia severity. Research
on Yoga Nidra is particularly uncertain because
participant numbers are small and many studies have
methodological weaknesses. Relaxation, physical
Vol: 1 | Issue: 4 | September - 2026 movement, and a more regular daily routine may
contribute to benefit, although the responsible
mechanisms remain unconfirmed. For suitable
individuals, an adapted yoga routine may
complement usual care. It should neither postpone
evaluation of persistent symptoms nor replace
established insomnia treatment. Future trials require
standardized descriptions of practice, credible
comparison groups, longer observation, and a
combination of patient-reported and objectively
measured outcomes.