Dr Sakshi Sharma
drsakshimahajan03@gmail .com
“If most brains are like Windows or Android, a neurodivergent brain is like a different operating system- equally valid, just works differently.”
Neurodivergence is not a disease ,it is a different way of experiencing world .Some childrens are built differently ,when they don’t fit the system ,it means the system needs to change not the child .They are born with different understanding capabilities .It is quite strange that every so called’ Normal ‘child goes through the same milestones but a neuro divergent child does not follow the same. It dosent ,mean they understand less but their power of assuming things is different so we being Normals categorise them Abnormals
WHAT IS NEURODIVERGENCE?
“Neurodivergent is a term that recognizes natural variations in how human brains think, learn, and process information.”Neurodivergent individuals may think, learn, feel, or communicate in ways that differ from the majority (neurotypical people). To put up simply Neurodivergence focuses on difference, not deficiency. It includes conditions such as:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
* ADHD
* Dyslexia
* Dyspraxia
* Tourette syndrome
Neurodivergent people may have:
* Unique learning styles
* Different communication patterns
* Sensory sensitivities
* Deep focus on specific interests
* Strong creativity or pattern recognition
Recognising Neurodivergent child
COMMUNICATION & SOCIAL SKILLS :
Delayed speech or unusual speech pattern
Repeats words or phrase
Limited eye contact
Difficulty understanding social rule
Prefers playing alone
BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS:
Repetitive actions (hand flapping,rocking,spinning objects)
Upset in small changes in routines
Intense focus on one interest (numbers, trains, letters,) Appears ‘in their own world”at times
SENSORY SENSTIVITIES:
Over reacts to loud sounds ,lights,textures or smells
Dislikes certain clothes,foods,or being touched
Seeks sensory input (jumping, spinning, chewing objects)
Learning Styles differences :
May be very good at some things but struggles in others
Difficulty in reading,writing,or following instructions
EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION :
Meltsdown instead of typical tantrums
Trouble expressing feelings with words
Appears emotionally younger than age
Ayurveda does not use the term neurodivergent, but recognizes differences in mind, learning, behavior, and intelligence as part of natural variation in Prakriti (constitution) and Manas (mind).
Neurodivergent children often show:
* Vata predominance -restlessness, hyperactivity, irregular routines
* Rajas-Tamas imbalance- emotional instability, withdrawal, or overactivity
* Manovaha Srotas Dushti – disturbances in the mental channels affecting cognition, speech, and perception
How Ayurveda Understands Neurodivergence
Ayurveda explains differences in brain and mind through
Prakriti (Individual Constitution)
* Every child is born with a unique Sharira Prakriti (body) and Manasa Prakriti
* Some minds are more:
* Vata-dominant-creative, fast, sensitive, irregular
* Pitta-dominant-intense, sharp, reactive
* Kapha-dominant-calm, slow, withdra
Neurodivergent children are often Vata-predominant or have Vata imbalance.
Manovaha Srotas (Channels of the Mind)
* Neurodivergence is linked to functional variation or disturbance in these channels
* Affects:
* Cognition
* Speech
* Sensory processing
* Emotional regulation
Guna Theory (Mental Qualities)
The mind is governed by three gunas
Satwa : excess satwa leads to clarity and balance
Rajas: Restlessness,hyperactivity
Tamas: Inertia,withdrawl
Neurodivergence is often associated with Rajas-Tamas dominance, not absence of intelligence
Causes According to Ayurveda (Nidana)
Prenatal (Garbhai) Beeja Dushti (genetic/congenital factors) o Maternal stress, diet, illness Postnatal Agni imbalance-Ama- Improper diet & routine- Sensory overload or trauma
Key principles
* Vata Shamana (calming the nervous system)
* Medhya Rasayana (brain-nourishing herbs)
* Satvavajaya Chikitsa (behavioral & emotional support)
* Commonly used approaches
* Abhyanga (oil massage)
* Nasya (age-appropriate)
* Shiro Pichu / Shirodhara (selected cases)
* Diet: warm, nourishing, routine-based
Common medications
SWARNPRASHAN enhances cognitive functions,memory and immunity
Medhya Churna / Rasayana Churna
* Combination of Brahmi, Shankhapushpi, Mandukaparni, and Guduchi
* Improves memory, attention, and cognition Brahmi Ghrita / Medhya Ghrita
* Ghee-based preparation with Brahmi, Shankhapushpi
* Used for improving intellect and calming hyperactivity Swarnaprashana (Gold-based Rasayana)
* Supports immunity, intelligence, and overall development Ashwagandha Churna / Ghrita
* Supports stress management, sleep, and nervous system
* Bala Rasayana / Chyawanprash (Children’s Form)
* Supports overall immunity, growth, and brain development
Conclusion
Life of a Neurodivergent child is not less .With patience ,support and acceptance they navigate challenges and contribute uniquely to the world
(The author is (Prof. & HOD) Govt. Ayurvedic College, Akhnoor)
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