Summary
Researchers highlight that excessive screen use can aggravate the doshas, leading to a range of physical and mental discomforts. Vata, for example, can increase anxiety and insomnia, while Pitta can result in irritability and headaches. Kapha, on the other hand, can be affected by a sedentary lifestyle and weight gain. During the transition from winter to spring, these imbalances can intensify. Ayurveda, as described in classical texts such as the Charaka Saṃhitā and the Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya, emphasizes the importance of balancing the senses and suggests practices to protect eye health, calm the mind, and adjust daily routines. Practical recommendations include adjustments to diet and dinacharya (daily routine) to mitigate the negative effects of excessive technology use.
Key points
- Excessive screen use can aggravate Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, resulting in anxiety, irritability, and a sedentary lifestyle.
- The transition from winter to spring can intensify imbalances associated with technology use.
- Classical texts such as Charaka Saṃhitā and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya address the relationship between the senses and excessive stimuli.
- Ayurvedic practices can help protect the eyes and balance the mind.
- Health in Ayurveda is seen as a state of balance, which can be affected by conscious technology use.
What the classical texts say
“Os sentidos devem ser protegidos e mantidos em equilíbrio, pois o excesso de estímulos pode levar a doenças.”
“A saúde é o resultado do equilíbrio entre os doshas, os dhatus e os sentidos.”
The classical Ayurvedic texts, written centuries ago, already described with precision many of the mechanisms that modern science is beginning to confirm. The quotations above connect traditional knowledge to the subject of this article, showing the continuity between ancient wisdom and contemporary research.
✦ For you
Consider observing how screen use affects your well-being. Try taking regular breaks during device use and practice eye relaxation exercises. Adjusting your daily routine to include moments of disconnection can help balance your mind and body. If you notice persistent symptoms, seek a qualified healthcare professional.
For practitionersExpand
In clinical practice, it is important to assess how excessive technology use may be impacting patients' doshas. Recommend dinacharya practices that include eye breaks and mental relaxation techniques. Also consider adjusting the diet to support the balance of doshas affected by digital stress.