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Meditation Revealed: How Science Proves It Manages Stress and Rewires Your Brain

Experts at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga are championing meditation as a proven scientific tool. They cite modern research, like fMRI studies, showing how practices such as Om chanting directly calm the brain's fear center. The event celebrated World Meditation Day, underscoring the global recognition of these benefits. The initiative is part of a broader effort to blend ancient yogic wisdom with contemporary health practices for better mental resilience.

Key Points: MDNIY Experts Cite Science on Meditation for Stress and Neuroplasticity

  • Experts highlight meditation's clinical relevance for managing modern occupational stress
  • Neuroimaging shows Om chanting reduces fear center activity in the amygdala
  • Yoga Nidra induces brain changes linked to deep relaxation and less inflammation
  • The UN-proclaimed World Meditation Day aligns with integrating traditional and modern wellness
2 min read

Meditation a scientific tool for stress management, neuroplasticity: MDNIY

Experts at MDNIY explain how meditation, backed by fMRI studies, is a scientific tool for stress management, emotional regulation, and brain rewiring.

"Nearly 60-70 per cent of stress is occupational in nature and stressed the need to align body and mind through techniques prescribed in the Patanjala Yogasutra. - Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY"

New Delhi, Dec 22

Meditation is a scientific tool that can help manage stress and regulate the brain's emotional responses, said experts at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), under the Ministry of Ayush.

The experts, celebrating World Meditation Day on Sunday, highlighted the clinical relevance of meditation in today's competitive world.

"Nearly 60-70 per cent of stress is occupational in nature and stressed the need to align body and mind through techniques prescribed in the Patanjala Yogasutra," said Prof. (Dr.) Kashinath Samagandi, Director, MDNIY.

Referring to contemporary research, he explained that neuroimaging studies show that Om chanting reduces activity in the amygdala -- the brain's centre for fear and negative emotions -- by activating the prefrontal cortex, which regulates emotional responses.

An fMRI study has demonstrated significant deactivation of the amygdala during loud Om chanting compared to the resting state.

He further cited findings from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, indicating that Yoga Nidra produces measurable changes in brain activity associated with deep relaxation and emotional regulation, thereby reducing stress and systemic inflammation.

Notably, the UN General Assembly last year proclaimed 21 December as World Meditation Day, reaffirming the right of every individual to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.

The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Ayush's ongoing efforts to integrate traditional Indian wisdom with modern lifestyle practices for a healthier society.

During the event, Swami Muktimayananda of the Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi, encouraged participants to turn inward for lasting peace.

"The calming mental fluctuations begin with self-understanding and recognition of one's true nature -- Sat Chit Anand Swaroop -- grounded in love and compassion," he said.

He also stressed adherence to Yama and Niyama to overcome ego, jealousy, and unfulfilled desires that disturb inner harmony.

The event saw specialised meditation sessions that brought together eminent scholars, yoga practitioners, and enthusiasts.

The programme also featured practical demonstrations of various meditation techniques, aimed at equipping participants with effective tools to enhance mental and emotional resilience.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
As someone working in a high-pressure IT job in Bangalore, I can vouch for this. Started Yoga Nidra 6 months ago and my sleep quality and anxiety levels have improved dramatically. It's not just spiritual, it's a practical life skill.
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Michael C
Fascinating read. The part about Om chanting reducing amygdala activity is particularly interesting from a neuroscience perspective. More research like this is needed globally. Kudos to the Indian institutes for leading the way.
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Sneha F
While I appreciate the science, I hope the focus remains on accessibility and not commercialization. These techniques should be available to all, not turned into expensive wellness retreats for the elite.
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Rohit P
Good initiative by Ayush Ministry. But implementation is key. We have yoga day celebrations once a year in offices, but what about daily 10-minute meditation breaks? Companies should actively promote this for employee well-being.
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Kavya N
My grandmother has been telling me to chant Om since I was a child. Now science proves her right! It's beautiful how our traditions are so deep. The mention of Yama and Niyama is crucial – meditation isn't just sitting quietly, it's a way of life.

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