Comparative Study Of Effect Of Mediation On Autonomic Nervous System In Healthy Meditators And Non Meditators

Study Of Effect Of Meditation On Autonomic Nervous System In Healthy Subjects

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Meditation is a type of relaxation technique produced by focusing attention to a particular theme. Meditation produces profound changes in almost all systems of human body including nervous system. The changes occurring can be recorded by assessment of various autonomic nervous system tests. Objectives: To assess and evaluate parasympathetic nervous system tests in meditators and non meditators. Methods: After approval by ethical committee, 200 subjects were included in the study. 100 were healthy meditators and 100 were healthy non meditators. Parasympathetic function tests of all 100 subjects were recorded after informed consent. Results: and interpretation: Parasympathetic function tests showed that Expiration : Inspiration (E:I) ratio, Valsalva ratio and 30:15 ratio was significantly higher in meditators than non-meditators (p<0.001). Conclusion: Regular meditation increases parasympathetic dominance in our body. Meditation helps to maintain normal homeostasis in our body. Hence, meditation should be practiced daily for overall well-being of the body. [Solanki A Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(1):11-15]