Effect of Gayatri Mantra Chanting on Attention, Memory, Anxiety and Mental State in Young Athletes: A Prospective Study

Abstract

<jats:p>Introduction: The Gayatri Mantra (GM) is one of the oldest available divine hymns in ancient vedic literature, a mantra of physical, emotional, mental healing and spiritual awakening or self-realization. GM is a standard, validated, empowerment tool aiding in effective behavioral changes leading to optimal and healthy lifestyle. Effect of vedic chanting on consciousness and mental state has been long researched and has been documented in ancient religious literatures. However, due to its religious connotations, its scientific scrutiny and validation has been not popularized. The present study tried to assess the effect of GM chanting on attention, memory, anxiety and mental state on healthy young athletes.&#x0D; Methodology: The present study was a prospective one which included 45 athletes who were divided into three different study arms of 15 each – two arms were undertaking normal meditation with or without an add on GM Chanting while meditation, while one was control group. All subjects were evaluated (at baseline and 3 months) for attention (using 6 letter cancellation, digit letter substitution), memory [using digit span test (forward, backward), multiple choice apparatus], anxiety (using state trait anxiety inventory), and mental state using MMSE. Results were statistically analyzed.&#x0D; Results: Subjects with GM chanting showed significant improvement in attention and memory domain. Less failed attempts and prompt response to audio and visual stimuli for multiple choice apparatus was noted for the GM group. Sustained visual attention, scanning without distraction and better concentration are required for the digit cancellation test. Marked improvements in both state and trait anxiety was noted for the GM chanters. Improved mental state was observed for both meditating group compared with the control.&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: GM chanting plays a significant role in the well being of the people. GM chanting has significant effects in attention, memory, anxiety and mental state. Regular chanting of GM shall improve learning power, concentration, prosperity, eternal power, peace and improves quality of life.&#x0D; </jats:p>

Mantra yoga as a probable measure in improving sleep and reaction time among commercial drivers: An exploratory pilot study

“…10 It is contemplated that each of these mantras has medico-spiritual benefits and this has been demonstrated by various studies. 11,[20][21][22][23][24] However, most of these studies conducted on school students. These studies has shown that mantra chanting improves memory, attention, concentration, learning power, 11,20,21 enhance the workplace well-being, 22 enhances the stability of cardiac function by modulating autonomic functions, 23,24 reduce anger and anxiety.…”

“…11,[20][21][22][23][24] However, most of these studies conducted on school students. These studies has shown that mantra chanting improves memory, attention, concentration, learning power, 11,20,21 enhance the workplace well-being, 22 enhances the stability of cardiac function by modulating autonomic functions, 23,24 reduce anger and anxiety. 25 Reaction time is an important skill required in all profession, however it has a greater value among drivers, as the increased reaction time is correlated to increased number of road traffic accidents.…”

Effect of Gayatri Mantra on Health: A Narrative Review.

“…There is a good amount of traditional literature which mentions the effects of chanting Gayatri mantras (GM) on consciousness and mental state of the person (Samajdar et al, 2020). But owing to its religious connotations, conceptual or theoretical explanations, its scientific scrutiny and validation has not been popularized.…”

Managing Anxiety and Stress Holistically: Vedic Wisdom from the Purna Health Management System

“…Recent research also indicates that Pranayama (breathwork) is helpful in managing stress and anxiety in several populations [34][35][36]. The literature suggests that mantra is an effective practice for managing stress and anxiety [37][38][39][40]. Research indicates that those who engage in reflection during a stressful experience are more resilient and have better well-being [41].…”