G. SVYASA Ph. D. Theses
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Yoga Theses by Yoga PhD Students at SVYASA. These pages present some efforts at Scientific Validation of Yoga. You may receive full text of available yoga research papers
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Item Effect of suddhi kriya based yoga program on allergic rhinitis - a randomized controlled study(S-VYASA, 2025-01-16) Ripudaman Singh Chauhan; Dr. Rajesh S. K.BACKGROUND Allergic Rhinitis (AR) is a common IgE (immunoglobulin-E) mediated upper respiratory tract inflammation, causing symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and nasal obstruction, with a global prevalence of 20%-40%. While not life-threatening, AR significantly impairs daily functioning. Yoga interventions have shown promise in improving lung capacity, nasal airflow, and AR symptoms, potentially through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Yoga can downregulate pro inflammatory cytokines, upregulate anti-inflammatory cytokines, activate the HPA axis, and stimulate the vagus nerve, leading to reduced TNF-alpha, NF-κB, CRP, and cortisol levels. As a frequently used complementary and alternative therapy, yoga, particularly Hatha yoga, with its Shuddhi Kriya cleansing techniques and breathing exercises, appears to positively influence both the immune and respiratory systems, offering potential benefits for AR management. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Prevalence Study: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and impact of Allergic Rhinitis (AR) among college students in Vadodara city. Intervention Study: The primary aim of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of a Shuddhi Kriya-based yoga program in managing allergic rhinitis. METHODS SUBJECTS AND DESIGN Prevalence Study: In a cross-sectional study conducted among college students in Vadodara city, Gujarat, a total of 1337 students were included through a cluster sampling method. Responses were recorded using the SFAR (Score for allergic rhinitis) scale in conjunction with a semi- structured questionnaire. Intervention Study: In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), the study involved 60 individuals who had been experiencing moderate to severe chronic allergic rhinitis for over a year. These participants were randomly assigned to either a yoga or a control group. Seven patients were later withdrawn from both the yoga and control groups, resulting in a final sample of 53 patients (27 in the yoga group and 26 in the control group). Over the course of eight weeks, the yoga group engaged in the SKYP module for approximately 60 minutes each day, four days a week. The protocol included a combination of yogic Shuddhi Kriyas, asanas, loosening exercises, breathing exercises, pranayama, along with yogic counseling and lectures. Measurements of the nasal symptom score (TNSS), the Mini-rhinoconjunctivitis quality of life questionnaire (mini RQLQ), peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) were conducted both before and after the 8-week intervention period. DATA EXTRACTION & DATA ANALYSIS Prevalence Study: In the cross-sectional study, data collection was facilitated through Google Forms, structured into three parts. The initial section captured demographic details, the second part consisted of the SFAR form, and the final section contained a semi-structured questionnaire. Diagnosis of AR was based on the SFAR scoring system, which comprises 8 questions and ranges from 0 to 16. A cut-off of SFAR≥7 was utilized to define the presence of AR, with a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 83% for SFAR≥7. Intervention Study: For the RCT, data recorded on questionnaire sheets was transferred to an Excel spreadsheet, and various variables were analyzed across different domains. The statistical analysis was carried out using R statistical software, version 4.0.2. Normality tests were performed on both baseline and post-trial data. For normally distributed variables, a parametric independent sample t-test was employed to assess significance, while the non-parametric Mann Whitney U test was utilized for non-parametric data. In cases where baseline matching between the yoga and control groups was lacking, difference scores were computed for the relevant variables. RESULTS Prevalence Study: Based on the SFAR (Short Form for Allergic Rhinitis) scale, a total of 257 students, constituting 19.22% of the participants, scored SFAR≥7, meeting the criteria for diagnosing Allergic Rhinitis (AR). Among those diagnosed with AR, the mean age was 20.37±2.04 years. Within this group, 168 (65.37%) were female, with a mean age of 20.29±1.86 years, while 89 (34.63%) were male, with a mean age of 20.51±2.33 years. Notably, participants with an SFAR score of ≥7, indicative of AR, exhibited common symptoms such as sneezing (84.05%), runny nose (71.98%), nasal congestion (71.21%), and eye itching or epiphora (78.21%), all of which showed significant differences when compared to the non-AR group (P<0.01). Among the AR-positive participants, 100 (38.91%) had Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (PAR), while 133 (51.75%) had Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR). Among the SFAR≥7 (AR positive) group, 227 (88.33%) identified house dust and pollen as triggering agents, while 30 (11.67%) couldn't identify specific allergens. Additionally, the questionnaire revealed that 209 (81.32%) participants in the AR-positive group were aware of their allergies, and 52 (20.62%) had undergone allergy testing (IgE or SPT), with 38 (73.08%) receiving positive results. Notably, among male participants, 13 (14.60%) reported no effect of AR on their academic activities, while 24 (27%) experienced a mild effect, 38 (42.70%) a moderate effect, and 14 (5.70%) a severe effect. In contrast, among female students, 32 (19%) reported no effect, 37 (22%) a mild effect, 75 (44.60%) a moderate effect, and 24 (14.30%) a severe effect on their academic activities due to AR. Intervention Study: The implementation of the Shuddhi Kriya-based yoga intervention resulted in significant improvements in the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) 12-hour morning rating. Notably, there was a substantial reduction in the score for nasal drainage (z = -2.67, p = 0.007) and the overall total symptom score (z = 3.16, p = 0.002) compared to the control group. However, no statistically significant differences were observed in other symptom categories, including nasal blockage, nasal itching, sneezing, and poor sleep (all p > 0.05). In the two-week assessment of the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS), the yoga group exhibited significant improvements in all domains of nasal symptoms when compared to the control group. Notably, there were substantial reductions in nasal congestion (z = -3.43, p = 0.001), nasal drainage (z = - 3.39, p = 0.001), nasal itching (z = -3.51, p = 0.001), sneezing (z = -3.89, p = 0.001), and difficulty in sleeping (z = -2.13, p = 0.033). The overall total TNSS also showed significant improvement (z = -4.71, p = 0.001). The participants in the yoga group, experienced a significant reduction in symptom scores, as measured by the Mini Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (Mini RQLQ), across all five domains. Specifically, there were notable reductions in activity (z = -4.89, p = 0.001), practical problems (z = -4.18, p = 0.001), other symptoms (z = - 3.21, p = 0.001), nose symptoms (t = -4.83, p = 0.001), and eye symptoms (t = -4.83, p = 0.001). The total score also demonstrated a considerable enhancement (t = -3.01, p = 0.004). Regarding symptom severity, both ocular and nasal symptoms improved significantly in the yoga group compared to the control group, as evidenced by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores (ocular symptoms: z = -4.19, p = 0.01; nasal symptoms: z = 4.71, p = 0.01). In terms of respiratory function, the Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) exhibited a substantial improvement in the yoga group compared to the control group (z = 2.76, p = 0.006), while the Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) did not show a significant improvement (t = 1.95, p = 0.056). CONCLUSION Prevalence Study: In conclusion, our study found that allergic rhinitis (AR) is common among college students in Vadodara city, with Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR) being more prevalent than Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (PAR). Despite high awareness, only a minority had undergone allergy testing. Many students with AR experienced comorbidities, impacting their academic activities significantly. This highlights the need for public health policies addressing respiratory health and early diagnosis. Future research should identify risk factors to inform targeted interventions. Intervention Study: In conclusion, the Shuddhi Kriya Yoga Program (SKYP) stands out as a promising integrative approach for managing allergic rhinitis, offering substantial improvements in both physical symptoms and overall quality of life. This comprehensive program, which includes a unique combination of Hatha Yoga's Shat Kriyas, asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques, has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing nasal symptoms and enhancing the well-being of individuals dealing with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis. Its holistic approach, with a focus on stress reduction and non-invasive healthcare solutions, suggests its potential value in the treatment of this condition. This study provides a foundation for further research and the potential integration of yoga-based interventions into standard treatment protocols for allergic rhinitis.Item Concept of dharana, dhyana, and samadhi in prasthanatrayi and patanjali yoga sutra - An analysis.(S-VYASA, 2025-01-16) Madan Mohan; Prof. M. K. SridharThe concept of meditation is a practice that has been used for a long period of time. However, different people usually carry the concept of meditation for a different purpose. Some form of meditation is just simple and are just used by ordinary people just to attain a moment of relaxation or to reduce stress. However, some concepts of meditation are complex such as Samādhi. Nevertheless, some are religious-oriented while others are secular in nature. However, there is a lot that has been done in the field of science to try and explain the scientific explanation of meditation. But over the years, the aspect of meditation such as Samādhi has remained controversial with no proper scientific explanation. The principles of Dhāraṇā, Dhyāna, and Samādhi hold immense importance within Indian philosophical traditions. These profound practices are extensively discussed in the Prasthānatrayī, which comprises the foundational texts of Vedānta. Dhāraṇā involves directing and focusing the mind on a specific object, while Dhyāna denotes the meditative state that arises from sustained concentration. Samādhi represents the pinnacle of consciousness attained through the practice of Dhyāna, wherein the individual transcends personal identity and attains complete absorption in the object of meditation. These three practices are intricately interconnected and should be cultivated sequentially. The comprehensive exploration of Dhāraṇā, Dhyāna, and Samādhi is expounded in the Prasthānatrayī, encompassing the Yogasūtra, Brahmasūtra, and Upaniṣad, thereby providing a profound understanding of their significance in the Indian philosophical traditions.Item Yoga for psycho-spiritual well-being of French professionals(S-VYASA, 2025-01-16) Pascal Papillon; Dr. Rajesh S. K.INTRODUCTION The mental and psychological health of French professionals is a concern, with high rates of conditions such as anxiety, depression, burnout, and stress. While yoga has been shown to have positive effects on physical, mental, and spiritual health, there is a lack of research on its effects specifically among French professionals. Due to cultural differences, it is important to investigate the potential benefits of yoga for this population and develop culturally-appropriate interventions. LITERARY REVIEW The aim of this literature review study was to evaluate the existing scientific literature on Karma Yoga, with a focus on understanding its potential benefits for promoting human excellence. The review of literature suggests that the application of Karma Yoga can be applied in a variety of settings to promote human excellence, including in the areas of business and work, transformational leadership, moral development, and spirituality. Further, literature review study found that spiritual well-being, mindfulness, emotion regulation, stress, and happiness are closely related and can be affected by various factors such as work-life balance, work demands and personal factors. The research suggests that interventions that focus on holistic well-being, including spiritual well-being, mindfulness, emotion regulation, stress, and happiness may be more effective in promoting overall well-being among professionals. AIMS The three studies aimed to provide a comprehensive examination of the relationship between spiritual health and psychological well-being, the presumption of cross-cultural similarity, and the effectiveness of a yoga-based intervention on these factors. The purpose of first study was to investigate the correlation between spiritual well-being, mindfulness, and emotion regulation among a group of young emerging French professionals. Additionally, the second study aimed to compare and contrast the mindfulness, job satisfaction, and happiness levels, as well as the significance of spirituality and religion, among Indian and French professionals. Furthermore, the third study aimed to assess the impact of yoga-based interventions on the psycho-spiritual well-being of French professionals for a period of 8 weeks, with a subsequent evaluation one month later. METHODS SUBJECTS AND DESIGN The first study used an online cross-sectional survey design to observe the relationship between spiritual health and psychological well-being among a sample of 421 participants recruited from universities in Strasbourg, France. The age range of participants in this study was 18 to 28 years with a mean age of 20.77 years (SD=2.22). The second study used a similar design to test the presumption of cross-cultural similarity among a sample of 214 IT professionals from France and India. The sample from France had a mean age of 42.36 years (SD=10.46 years) and the sample from India had a mean age of 38.25 years (SD=8.68 years).The third study used a two group pre/post-intervention design to examine the effectiveness of a yoga-based intervention on spiritual health and psychological well-being among a sample of 67 participants, with 33 in the yoga group and 34 in the control group. The mean age of the control group was 47.8 (9.5) and the mean age of the yoga group was 50.3 (7.2). ASSESSMENT TOOLS The study utilized measures to evaluate the emotional regulation, mindfulness, spiritual well being, stress, happiness, satisfaction at work and importance of spirituality/religion among professionals. The measures that were used in the study were: The Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, The Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI), The Spiritual Well-being Questionnaire (SWBQ), The Perceived Stress Scale, The Subjective Fluctuating Happiness Scale, The Subjective Authentic-Durable Happiness Scale, in addition to assessments of satisfaction at work and the importance of spirituality/religion. DATA EXTRACION AND ANALYSIS All statistical analyses were performed using the statistical package JASP and R Software. Pearson correlations were used to examine the association between the variables of interest. Multiple regression was run to predict the outcome variables based on the predictor variables. The independent samples t-test was used to compare differences between groups and two-way mixed ANOVA was used to analyze the interaction effects between the independent variables. RESULTS The results of three different studies can be summarized as: The first study results indicate that there is a strong positive correlation between self-reported spiritual health and mindfulness. Additionally, the results show a significant association between spiritual health and emotional processes. Moreover, the study found that spiritual dissonance is negatively related to spiritual health and mindfulness. The findings of second study revealed that there were no significant differences in levels of mindfulness, satisfaction at work, fluctuating happiness and authentic-durable happiness between Indian and French IT professionals. Furthermore, the study found that there was a similar pattern of intercorrelations between these variables among the two groups, which could be seen as an indication of cross-cultural agreement. However, the study also found that Indian IT professionals had higher levels of importance placed on religion and spirituality when compared to French IT professionals. The results of the third study suggest that after an 8-week yoga-based training intervention, French professionals experienced a significant reduction in stress levels, an improvement in emotion regulation(reappraisal domain), an increase in mindfulness, an enhancement in spiritual well-being, and an improvement in authentic-durable happiness. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the first study suggests that various aspects of spirituality can positively impact the well-being of emerging professionals. The second study emphasizes the need to take into account cross-cultural factors when studying well-being in the workplace, particularly in terms of the significance placed on religion and spirituality. The third study presents evidence for the efficacy of yoga in enhancing psycho-spiritual well-being among French professionals, but additional research is necessary to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and to evaluate other potential methods of measuring well-being.Item Role of Yoga and its possible mechanism behind the psychophysiological outcomes in elderly - A Randomized control trial(SVYASA, 2023-01-07) Shree Ganesh H. R.; Subramanya Pailoor; Raghavendra RaoBACKGROUND The ageing process is a biological reality which has its own dynamic progression, usually associated with degenerative changes, loss of role and functionality and an increasing prevalence for chronic non communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, cancer, dementia, Parkinson’s etc. Lifestyle approaches such as yoga would therefore mitigate disability and prevent NCD’s. This study aims to evaluate the effects of yoga in reducing stress and improving performance in elderly. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Aim: To evaluate the effects on possible mechanism behind the integrated yoga practice on psychophysiological outcomes in elderly population. Objectives: To evaluate the effects of yoga on perceived stress, quality of life, sleep, mood, heart rate variability, spinal flexibility, muscle strength in elderly. METHODS Participants Elderly subjects willing to undergo yoga class for three months conducted by Divine Park Trust, Saligrama, Udupi and Kundapura. Subjects will be referred from both primary care physicians and bill board flyers inviting participants to enrol in a lifestyle program to improve their health. Design The proposed study design is a parallel, prospective, waitlisted, randomized controlled trial with 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients will be randomized into intervention arm and control arm. vii Assessments: Primary Outcomes: 1. Quality of Life using older people’s quality of life questionnaire 2. Changes in Heart rate variability Secondary Outcomes 1. Spinal flexibility assessed by Sit and Reach Test 2. Calf muscle strength assessed using and Back and leg dynamometer 3. Hand Grip strength assessed using Hand grip Dynamometer 4. Self-reported depression using Geriatric Depression Scale 5. Insomnia using Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index 6. Stress level using Perceived Stress Scale 7. Constipation using Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life Intervention: The Yoga intervention comprises of Physical postures, Pranayama (controlled breathing), Meditation & Relaxation & will be given under the guidance of an institutionally certified Yoga therapist. The physical postures consist of preliminary stretching exercises followed by breathing practices and asana in four categories (standing, sitting, prone, and supine). RESULTS: Yoga group showed significant reduction (expressed as significance) in all the variables of frequency domain of heart rate variability, LF, HF and LF/HF (p<0.05). All the domains of quality of life were depicted to have a significant improvement in yoga group after a 12 week intervention when compared to control group. (p=0.001). viii Also, perceived stress, depression, spinal flexibility and calf muscle strength was improved in when compared with control group in both between and within group analysis (p=0.001). All the domains of sleep quality and constipation related Quality of life, Hand grip strength and VAS scores depicted an improvement in the yoga group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The improvement in the quality of life and autonomic function in elderly was mediated by reduction in stress and improvement in their physical and psychological well-beingItem Role of finance in yoga related to health, education, and allied industries(SVYASA, 2022-12-22) Dayananda Swamy, H. R.; Karuna Nagarajan; G. Agoramoorthy; Judu IlavarasuYoga has been popularized worldwide mainly due to its utility in health and education. Hence, Yoga has gained a societal relevance in contemporary world. Thus, the traditional purpose of Yoga, which is for spiritual upliftment, has changed to fitness and other immediate physical and mental health benefits. As a result, it may appear that the contemporary practice of Yoga has been largely deviated and diluted. The strength of momentum that is gained in physical culturing through Yoga is indomitable. But it cannot neglect altogether the traditional source and purpose. Yoga, however, should be acknowledged as the easiest and fastest means to bring the first impression about holistic health, and harmony and hence can be a best anchor for building further foundation, deep-rooted in traditional values. In order to facilitate addressing the current needs of the society in a large scale, and to put an anchor through Yoga for later higher spiritual practices, understanding the economic dynamics around Yoga is essential. Economic analysis of Yoga-based activities in India is not adequately presented in terms of scientific research publications. Policy-makers in the government largely depend on accurate data on the economics of Yoga, which is crucial to make strategic decisions. Gathering data on these least explored aspects of Yoga finance is a monumental task involving many government, non-government and corporate agencies. In this thesis, I have attempted to explore these unique dimensions to propose a set of recommendations for policy makers in the state and central government systems. The ideas, options and recommendations proposed in this thesis could create, shape and vi implement a systematic scientific approach to generate financial insinuation records surrounding all Yoga-allied activities that include healthcare, education, and commerce. This will immensely help future stakeholders in various industries to take evidence based decisions on using Yoga as a means to develop their service or business ventures to suit the needs of their targets, goals, and clients. Thus, this thesis has sown a tiny seed in the form of Yoga finance for future development of an entirely new sub-field of intensive research in the economic studies of Yoga. In order to elucidate this idea, I have attempted to present precise observations and outlooks under different chapters with an in-depth logic to pursue practical advances. Chapter 1 provides the general introduction of the entire thesis, covering the important aspects of the whole thesis, that includes role of finance in health, education, and business. Chapter 2 explores the scriptural perspective of Puruṣārthas that forms the foundation for the human pursuit to incorporate Dharma, Artha, Kāma and Mokṣa. Furthermore, it is elaborated on how Artha is the basis for even Kāma and Mokṣa. Particular focus has been made on Dāna and how the Corporate Social Responsibility can be naturally groomed to achieve it. Chapter 3 explores the needs, challenges and opportunities for using Yoga as the core intervention to treat various types of ailments. In order for the government and policy makers to decide on using Yoga as an important tool to address health care needs, vii systematic studies and quantitative data on financial viability of implementing Yoga interventions should be available. Chapter 4 attempts to review the contemporary issues related to the implementation of Yoga in the Indian education system. There is an urgent need to integrate the wisdom of ancient education system to the modern education system, because there are many pitfalls in the modern education system that is difficult to manage with the current approach followed in schools and colleges across India. Chapter 5 presents how Yoga is emerging as a huge business opportunity in India and elsewhere in the world. The key strategy to tap into the emerging economic resources are discussed in this chapter. Specific attempt has been made to evaluate the extent to which tourism sector was affected especially during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Chapter 6 focuses more on elaborating how Yoga can be promoted to meet the expectations of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework. The role of Yoga-based learning and how it could possibly enhance the SDGs are discussed in detail. Chapter 7 summarizes all the previous chapters to propose action-oriented list of recommendations, which can be easily acted upon by the government, policy makers, local bodies for the effective promotion of Yoga to reap the best financial benefits out of this huge economic opportunity emerging out of Yoga. The last chapter 8 concludes by appraising the strengths and weaknesses of the presented thesis.Item Bio-mechanics of yogasanas : A study of alignment and proficiency(SVYASA, 2022-12-22) Mohan Kishore D.; Manjunath N. K.BACKGROUND Yoga is a traditional Indian way of keeping the mind and body fit, through physical postures (asanas), voluntarily regulated breathing (pranayama), meditation and relaxation techniques. The recent pandemic has seen a huge surge in the number of yoga practitioners, many practicing without proper guidance which leads to unexpected injury. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The present study was designed to develop a technology-driven pose estimation method to assess and evaluate yoga postures to understand the level of accuracy. It will assist practitioners to perform any yoga posture with the support of a machine learning algorithm. METHODS Participants Twenty practitioners in the age group of 18 to 60 years performing different postures in real time were captured and fed separately to the proposed architectures and a comparison of the estimated accuracy was done. Design The present exploratory study included a group of 20 yoga practitioners to assess the accuracy and proficiency of yoga postures. Assessments: The image of a yoga practitioner performing an asäna is captured by a camera and fed separately to the four deep learning architectures, which then estimate the pose performed by the practitioner by comparing it with the pre-trained model. An error is shown if it does not match any of the five asanas. Intervention: The five yoga poses considered for posture estimation are (a) Ardhacandräsana (Half-moon pose) (b) Täòäsana (Mountain pose) (c) Trikoëäsana (Triangular pose) (d) Vérabhadräsana (Warrior pose-II) (e) Våkñäsana (Tree pose) Results: In this work, four distinct deep learning architectures-Epipolarpose, Openpose, Posenet, and Mediapipe-were utilized to evaluate yoga postures. The results show that, despite only utilising one camera, Mediapipe outperforms the other approaches in terms of accuracy. Five yoga postures have had their poses estimated using various suggested methods. Following the model's validation, the posture correctness of 20 real-time sample photos was estimated using the model. Conclusions: The health and fitness industry can employ human pose estimation efficiently. The huge range of poses with high degrees of freedom, the occlusions caused by the body or other objects blocking limbs as viewed from the camera, and the wide range of appearances or clothes make pose assessment for fitness applications particularly difficult. The mediapipe design offers the best estimation accuracy, according to this study, which evaluates the estimation of five different posturesItem Chandoyoga : Its effects on mindfulness, anxiety, self-concept, positive and negative affect & neuropsychological variables in adolescence(SVYASA, 2022-11-20) Mollika Ganguly; Sanjib Patra; Sampadananda Mishra, SAMPADANANDA MISHRABackground Adolescence is a critical age where due to immense physical and psychological transformations, children are found to have higher anxiety levels, identity crises leading to self-doubt, deregulated emotions etc. Failing to cope with these rapid changes there has been noticed decline in cognitive abilities like memory and attention affecting academic performance. Child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) is a growing concern all over the world. Mindfulness practices have not only been helpful in improving emotional quotient of an individual but its regular practice has also remarkably impacted awareness levels and attention in children. The present study hypothesized that practicing Sanskrit chanting as a mindfulness tool also identifying the benefits of the specific characteristic of chanting called Chanda/meters or Sanskrit prosody on equipping adolescents with better psychological health and improved cognitive abilities. The purpose was multi-fold 1. To have scientific evidence that Chandas/Sanskrit prosody (specific rhythms and pauses) has its own effect irrespective of the language, music, words or their meaning while chanting a shloka and validating its benefits mentioned in our ancient texts. 2. To make a study design that can identify the impact of the Chandas/prosody aspect of chanting and eliminating the factors like language, meaning of the phrase etc. 3. With this preliminary study and considering one type of Chanda, opening gates for researchers to further explore all kinds of Chandas to its maximum potential. 4. If the results matched our hypothesis, then we would like to conduct further study for children with special needs mainly ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder. viii Aims and Objectives Aim To study the effect of Chanda/Sanskrit prosody on cognitive abilities, mindfulness, anxiety and self-concept among adolescents. Objectives 1. To find the impact of Chanda/Sanskrit prosody on positive and negative emotions in school-going adolescents. 2. To find the impact of Chanda/Sanskrit prosody on cognitive performance in school going adolescents. 3. To identify the impact of Chanda/Sanskrit prosody on Anxiety, mindfulness and self concept in school-going adolescents. Research Question Does Chanda/Sanskrit prosody have any impact on emotions, cognitive performance, anxiety, mindfulness and self-concept scales in school-going adolescents? Hypothesis 1. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has helpful effect on positive and negative emotions in school-going adolescents. 2. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has positive impact on cognitive performance in school going adolescents. 3. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has positive impact on anxiety, mindfulness and self concept scales in school-going adolescents. ix Null Hypothesis 1. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has no effect in positive or negative emotions in school going adolescents. 2. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has no impact on cognitive performance in school-going adolescents. 3. Chanda/Sanskrit prosody has no impact on anxiety, mindfulness and self-concept scales in school-going adolescents. Method: Participants Participants for the study were appointed from a CBSE School called Samsidh Mount Litera Zee School, from Urban Bangalore, India. Children from grades 7 and 8 who met the inclusion criteria were allocated into 4 groups of the study. Randomization for groups could not be done as these kids already were in 4 different sections and shuffling them during school hours was not permitted. Sample size This sample size was obtained by calculating the Effect size as 0.94, fixing alpha as “0.05”, power of the study as 0.8, based on the previous study (Telles et al., 2017). But considering the rate of drop out and conduct an appropriate statistical analysis, a sample size of 120 participants was considered for the proposed research. Design The design of the study was a four-armed control trial. The intervention period was 5 days a week for all four groups for one month. Baseline and post intervention data was collected in the school premises before and after 30 days. x Assessments The outcome measures comprised of (a) Positive and Negative Affect Scale for Children, (b) Stroop Color-Word Test, (c) Digit Letter Substitution Test, (d) Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale, (e) Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale for Children and (f) Children’s Self concept Scale. Data analysis: The study aimed to test the hypothesis that chanting or humming slokas/mantras in a Chanda is associated with significant differences in post intervention mean± SD to pre intervention values of children’s self-concept scale, anxiety, emotions, sustained attention, executive function, mindfulness and awareness in adolescence. Continuous variables were reported as mean ± SD, categorical variables as the frequency with percentage. For continuous outcomes, within-group pre-post comparisons were made by paired 't' test and for between-group comparisons, two-sample 't' test was used to compare outcomes at baseline and follow-up. All comparisons were two-sided. p <0.05 was set as the cut-off of statistical significance. A post hoc analysis was run to assess the superiority of group effect on each variable. STATA version 14.2 was used for statistical analysis. Result PANAS-C There was no difference in both domains of PANAS in within group analysis. However, the positive affect was statistically significant when compared between the groups (p<0.01). A post-hoc analysis revealed the superiority of the CM and HM groups in positive affect alone when compared with other two groups. xi DLST and Stroop Test Within-group analysis using sample t-test demonstrated significant changes in HC, CS, and SS groups (p<0.001) with DLST scores. Post-hoc analysis revealed that the CS group had higher scores; however, there were no differences between the HC and CS groups. Stroop scores improved in all groups except for the SS group. Post-hoc analysis to examine the superiority between groups presented a higher statistical significance in CS group when compared to HC group. A statistical significance was also observed between the chanting and SS group. There were statistical differences within the group in both HC and CS groups in the Stroop mistake scores, but no differences were observed between groups. Anxiety, MAAS-C and Self-concept A significant change was noticed in the domains of anxiety, Intellectual and school status, physical appearance and attributes, and the total scores of the self-concept scale in all the four groups after the interventions. On pairwise group comparisons, the change in the domain of anxiety was significant for the Chanting vs English phrase reading, Chanting vs Humming and Chanting vs Silent sitting (p<0.05). When intellectual and school status for English phrase reading was compared to Silent sitting group, a significant difference was depicted (p<0.05). Also, Physical appearance and attributes scores and total scores were found significantly improved for Chanting vs Humming but only total scores in humming vs Silent sitting groups. There was a significant change in all the domains except happiness and satisfaction after chanting (p<0.01). However, participants in the English phrase reading group also showed a significant increase in the scores of anxiety and total scores of the Self-concept scale after intervention (p<0.01 and p=0.03). There was reduction in the anxiety levels for the humming group whereas increase in all anxiety scores in the remaining three groups. xii Conclusion Humming of Sanskrit prosody has reported an overall reduction in anxiety levels when compared to the remaining three groups. However, there was a decrease in the anxiety levels in the chanting group as well. There was a significant increase in mindfulness scores in the humming as well as chanting groups. Also, there was no change observed in the self-concept scales in the humming group. Beside this, mantra chanting and only humming the prosody without verse, had a similar effect on both emotional personality features of positive and negative effect. The results also suggest amelioration in the positive affect following chanting and humming the prosody, although there were no changes in the negative effect. Keywords: Sanskrit-prosody, Chanda, Adolescence, Self-concept, Anxiety, Mindfulness, positive & Negative affect, Mindfulness, sustained attention and Stroop effectItem Anomalous variations in microbial growth explained by traditional knowledge(SVYASA, 2022-11-20) Vegaraju Prabhakar; Alex Hankey; Ramesh N. MavathurThe main cultures of modern India, Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism find a common source in the Vedas and the Vedic literature, which existed for thousands of years before the rise of subsequent teachers such as Mahavira, Lord Buddha, Adishankara and the later Gurus of the Sikhs. Vedic literature contains statements that have been tested and verified by methods of modern science. Yoga practices from Shad darshanas have been profoundly verified experimentally in both physiological studies and medical trials. Adishankara’s profound statements from his commentaries and expressions on Advaita Vedanta have been shown to provide a profound basis for understanding consciousness in terms of modern science. Ayurveda passed thorough scientific scrutiny and testing, where thousands of studies have now been published and is shown to agree with deep understanding of biology in both theory and experiment. The limbs of the Veda, the Vedangas, have also been tested. The first, Shiksha, has been shown to provide deep insights into the nature of experience, and the foundation for a new approach to cognitive science. The last of the Vedangas, Jyotisha, the Vedic system of sidereal astrology, has also been thoroughly tested. An earlier S-VYASA PhD study began this process by showing that Jyotisha can predict output of microbiological growth processes, where microbes, i.e. bacteria or viruses, are cultured in flasks. Such microbial growth processes are highly variable and thus unpredictable, but by using times of flask-inoculation as the process starting time great reductions in the uncertainty were achieved – variances decreased by up to 80%. This previous PhD thesis and its accompanying publications showed that Jyotisha astrology can correctly vi predict output of vaccine production runs based on starting time of flask inoculation. When benefic Grahas were influencing the Lagna Muhurta, growth of bacteria was enhanced, while virus propagation was slowed. On the other hand, when malefic grahas were influencing the Lagna, growth of bacteria was slowed, and propagation of viruses was enhanced. These results are extended by the work carried out for the present thesis, which studied exponential phase growth of a simple, non-pathogenic variant of E. Coli bacteria. Rather than assess final output, the present study measured rates of bacterial growth, in particular during exponential phase growth, when the rate of doubling is constant, to understand the influence of Jyotisha factors on it. Such growth rates exhibit variations which have been considered inexplicable, i.e. anomalous artefacts. In addition to refining previous experiments, the current study was designed so that microbiology educational programs at schools and colleges could repeat them because of the safe, easy strain of bacteria used. The thesis proper starts with an exposition of Jyotisha as a supreme spiritual science elucidating deep understanding of Vedic sciences of the soul. Its appellation as the ‘science of sciences’ in the Vedic literature is fully justified. Of primary concern to the soul is its progress on the path of Sanatana Dharma, expounded in terms of the four concepts of Chaturvidha Purushardha, namely Dharma – Artha – Kama – Moksha: spiritual tendencies, ways to make gains of all kinds, probable achievements, and feasibility of attaining spiritual liberation. Jyotisha’s division of the Kalapurusha into 12 Bhavas yields a triplet of each of the four. For Dharma, individual nature, teachers, and spiritual merit give the greatest contributions, reflected in: Lagna, the 1st bhava, for the person, the 5th bhava for education, teachers and children, and the 9th bhava for Nature Support in life, i.e. in the auspicious Trikona bhavas. Similar triplets for Artha, Kama and Moksha may be defined. Part 1 of the thesis also gives a short exposition of the fundamentals of Jyotisha used to interpret a given Kundali. vii Jyotisha’s significance lies in its ability to make predictions about the course of any process and its outcome based on its starting time. Most usually it is used to predict the main tendencies in a person’s life, based on the time of their birth, Janma, and how to avoid or mitigate various kinds of suffering if any are predicted. Jyotisha expounds that starting times, whether auspicious or inauspicious, influence all processes. Now even microbiological processes and their outcomes are found to vary with quality of starting times, elucidating the dimension of time as heterogeneous. Experimentally, application of these principles of Jyotisha accurately predicts differences in vaccine production when inoculation times of production flasks are taken as Muhurta. As microbiologists know, output from such experiments is unpredictable; but the 3 Grahas, Guru (Jupiter), Chandra (Moon), and Rahu (the North Node) account for more than 70% of observed variance. Also earlier research assessed the effects of three solar eclipses even though they did not pass through India, since these are said to exert their malefic influence on all life on earth. Comparative values of virus vaccine production on solar eclipse dates showed that their effects were indeed more than Rahu’s Aims and Objectives The aim of this PhD thesis is to extend those results to continue efforts to establish the validity of Jyotisha astrology in modern scientific terms by studying and investigating specific Jyotisha influences on Exponential Phase Growth patterns of batch cultures using an easily obtainable non-pathogenic strain of bacterium K12-MG1655 of E. Coli. The objectives to provide Jyotisha-based explanations for the hitherto inexplicable anomalous variations, in bacterial growth rates are: (1) to identify factors that contribute to variances in growth rate; and (2) to investigate specific Jyotisha influences on Exponential Phase Growth. Ethical Clearance: Approval was obtained from the I.E.C. of S-VYASA Yoga University. viii Selection of Materials and Source: An easily obtainable, non-pathogenic strain of E. coli, K 12 MG 1655, was procured from National Centre for Biological Sciences, Bengaluru. Methods: The E. coli was grown according to standard protocols used in Microbiology. Design: Exponential phase growth rate (EPGR) and variances with reference to different Times of Flask Inoculation (TOFI) were studied. Intervention: The TOFI was taken as the appropriate valid Jyotisha parameter. Natural variations in growth allowed assessment of variations in growth rate. Novelty: Assessment of Jyotisha influences on EPGR of bacteria is novel. Assessments: OD-600 measurements were made with 1 ml of bacterial culture aliquots at 0, 60, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 300 and 360 minutes after TOFI. Mean slopes of exponential phase growth were obtained as regression lines for the five points from 180 to 360 minutes. Experiments measured detailed growth curves, assessed growth, computed Cell Numbers, Growth Rates, Doubling Time or Generation Time and Number of Generations at the above time points after TOFI and further correlated the variations with Graha Shadbalas. Also, the study tried to quantify effects of solar and lunar eclipses, both partial and total, on EPGR Results Growth Curves Generated: Over an eighteen-month period beginning 16.02.2017 and ending 11.08.2018, a total of one hundred and fifty growth curves (GCs) were generated for one hundred and two start times. These comprised (1) 59 individual growth curves (GCs), which included 30 GCs with eclipse start times, (2) 38 duplicate GCs (done parallel in 2 flasks for each TOFI) generating 76 GCs total, and (3) 5 triplicate GCs (done parallel in 3 flasks for each TOFI), i.e. 15 GCs total. Variances Obtained: Overall variance of all 150 regression line slopes was 0.1327; that for ix single TOFI obtained from within group doubles and triples (76 + 15 GCs) was 0.0218. Deliberate choice of start times during the many months of GC experiments permitted intermediate variances to be calculated for sets of GCs both 2 hours and 2 days apart. F test Analyses of Variances: F test indicated good significance indicating that, as we select and compare groups of GCs with to increasing difference between start times from a same start time to larger time differences, variances steadily increased from small values to larger ones. Influence of Eclipses: Growth curves on six eclipse days had reduced exponential phase growth rates. Influence of Planetary Strengths: Further detailed analyses showed that the graha Shadbala, planetary strength, of Kuja Graha correlated significantly with the slope of exponential phase segment of growth. Other grahas showed weaker trends. In other words, Shadbalas of Grahas correlated with exponential phase growth. Summary and Conclusion Incorporating the relevance of the time, space and consciousness dimension embodied in Jyotisha astrology; a subtler dimension than those so far incorporated in modern bioscience, the present experiments offer new understanding of variances in bacterial growth that replace previous ideas. While the previous experimental results were concerned with effects of Grahas on vaccine production the current study tests the possible effects of Saptagrahas on exponential phase of growth curves of the non-pathogenic bacterium, E. Coli K-12 MG 1655. Another salient finding was the effect that Mars (Kuja graha) dominance exerts on exponential phase growth, a discovery that confirms the effect exerted by planetary bodies on the biology of cells. The data of Kuja Shadbala reducing the growth rates during the exponential phase is an x evidence of Kuja’s malefic nature manifesting. Eclipses were observed to have similar malefic, life-opposing influences. Although the solar eclipses, during which experiment was conducted, could not be seen in India; its effect appeared to act globally. Present results also support earlier research observation of strong life opposing effects of eclipses, consistent with statements in the Jyotisha. Unlike earlier experiments that require license to grow pathogenic organisms, the methodology explained in the current study can be repeated in any ordinary biology laboratory, possibly creating wider acceptance & appreciation of Grahas’ influence on bacterial growth and enabling any researcher to experimentally test the hypothesis that variances in exponential phase growth rates of bacteria are smaller for smaller times between starting TOFIs. Biologists can now empirically test the validity of Jyotisha principles to offer scientific explanations for the high variances attributable to Navagrahas. Thus, this information not only helps to add a new dimension to microbiology, that of Bio-astrology / Ayur-Jyotisha supported by the astrophysical theory, but also explain how such influences are generated – one such being the influence of quantum correlations associated with each of Navagrahas. Jyotisha may become a source for innovative biological teaching and research, and revolutionize perspectives on biomedicine. Medical Jyotisha / Bio-Jyotisha may gain the primary role accorded to it by Ayurveda. This research study will have implications for Ayurveda and Yoga in addition to Jyotisha itself which helps to prove Time and Space become heterogeneous complex variables in their influence on biological processes. Key Words: Vedanga Jyotisha, Chaturvidha Purushardha, Exponential Phase Growth Rate, Heterogeneity of time dimension, Variance, Starting Time Clustering, Eclipses. (7 words)Item Psychophysiological changes associated with trataka (Yogic visual concentration)(SVYASA, 2022-11-20) Swathi P. S.; Raghavendra Bhat; Apar Avinash SaojiTräöaka (Yogic Visual Concentration) is one of the six cleansing techniques (Ñaöakarma) explained in Haöha yoga pradépikä. Träöaka means gazing continuously at a small point until tears are shed. This point of concentration activates the inner potential and can absorb the mind. Bahiranga träöaka (external concentrated gazing) is gazing at a candle flame or any other external objects, and antaranga träöaka (internal concentrated gazing) is focusing on the inner visualization of the object (Muktibodhananda, 1999). The practice of träöaka is considered an essential part of Ñaöakarma. Literature suggests that träöaka has many benefits, but there is a lack of clear understanding of the effects of träöaka scientifically. A study assessed the immediate effect of träöaka on critical flicker fusion (CFF) in thirty healthy volunteers. A significant increase in CFF immediately after träöaka sessions indicated better visual perception (Mallick & Kulkarni, 2010). In another study, the effect of träöaka on cognitive functions in the elderly population was assessed. Results showed significant improvements in cognitive functions such as Digit Span Test, Six Letter Cancellation Test, and Trail Making Test-B compared to the control group (Jagannathan et al., 2014). Another study demonstrated better performance on the Stroop colour-word test following träöaka compared to a control session. The research suggests träöaka technique increases selective attention, cognitive flexibility, and response inhibition (Raghavendra & Singh, 2016). Changes in heart rate variability and breath rate were assessed in 30 healthy vii volunteers (Raghavendra & Ramamurthy, 2014). There was a significant reduction in breath rate and an increase in the high-frequency component of HRV after the immediate practice of träöaka, indicating a trend of relaxation and parasympathetic activity. The above mentioned study looked at only frequency domain components of HRV, hence, in this study, we have investigated the time domain, nonlinear components, and association with the psychological task. Thus, the current study was proposed to understand the effects of träöaka on pre, during, and post-intervention. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: The present study was proposed to understand the psychophysiological changes associated with träöaka in healthy volunteers. The objectives of the study were to investigate the effects of träöaka and eye exercise on i) Autonomic functions viz. Heart rate variability, Heart rate, Respiratory rate, Skin Conductance, and Simple Visual Reaction Time task (SVRT), ii) Psychological well-being and visual strain, iii) Visuospatial short-term working memory through Corsi block tapping task (CBTT). METHODS Participants: For the Autonomic function and SVRT task, a total of thirty volunteers, for Visual strain and psychological well-being, a total of one hundred and six volunteers, and for CBTT, a total no of forty-one volunteers of both genders with ages ranging from 18 to 30 years participated in the study. They were students of a Yoga University in South India. They had the minimum experience of Yoga practice for six months. Design viii We adapted the self as control trial to assess the autonomic changes and visual reaction time, wherein each participant was assessed twice during experimental and control sessions. The assessments for Autonomic changes were done for the duration of 5 min before, 20 min for during the session, and immediately after the practice of träöaka or control session. For Simple Visual reaction time, the assessments were done for the duration of 5 min before and immediately after the practice of träöaka or control sessions. For the assessment of the performance of Corsi block tapping task, a repeated measures design was adapted. Each participant was assessed thrice, at baseline, following the practice of träöaka and control sessions. We adopted a randomized controlled trial to assess visual strain and psychological well-being, and questionnaires were administered at baseline and at the end of two weeks. Assessments: i. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and respiration were recorded using a 16-channel human physiology system (Power lab 16/35. A.D. Instruments, Australia) ii. Visual Fatigue Scale (VFS), Visual symptoms checklist (VSC), Mind-wandering questionnaire (MWQ), and State mindfulness attention awareness scale (SMAAS) were administered. iii. SVRT task and CBTT were presented using the Inquisit Millisecond software package 4.0 (Millisecond Software, LLC, Seattle, USA) Intervention: The träöaka module consists of 2 distinct stages, which were administered for 20 min. As a preparatory stage of träöaka, eye exercises were performed. The eye exercises were done with eyes open in a well-lit room. The second stage was the practice of träöaka itself. The ix participants were asked to fix their gaze on the candle's flame for about 2 to 3 minutes without blinking their eyes. This process was repeated for three rounds (simple focusing, intense & deep focusing for 5 min each), and practice was ended in silence with the prayer. The second stage consisted of about 15 minutes. During the control session, subjects practiced only eye exercises for 10 minutes, and for the next 10 minutes, they sat quietly with their eyes closed without doing any concentration or meditation exercise. RESULTS: i. Autonomic Functions & Simple visual reaction time task: Enhanced heart rate variability was observed during and following träöaka, indicative of possible parasympathetic activity in the autonomic activity. There was also a reduction noted in Respiratory rate, Skin Conductance, and SVRT task. ii. Visual Strain & Psychological well-being: There was a significant reduction in VFS and VSC scores, MWQ, along with an increase in SMAAS scores in the träöaka group after two weeks of intervention. iii. Performance in Corsi Block Tapping Task: The results demonstrate an enhanced working memory, spatial memory, and spatial attention following the practice of Träöaka in the Cosri Block Tapping Task. CONCLUSION: The practice of träöaka was found to reduce visual strain and mind wandering while improving state mindfulness. The träöaka (yogic visual concentration) leads to increased vagal tone and reduced sympathetic arousal along with reduction observed in SVRT Task. x Also, träöaka enhanced working and spatial memory in the CBTT. The results indicate the practice of träöaka to be safe in healthy volunteers. NEED OF THE STUDY: There is a paucity of scientific studies about the effects of träöakaon autonomic and cognitive functions and visual strain and psychological functions. All these domains could be potentially influenced positively through the practice of träöaka. Thus, we undertook studies to evaluate the effect of träöaka to understand autonomic changes during the träöaka and on Visual Reaction Time; performance in CBTT (for working and spatial memory) and to evaluate the effect of träöaka on the visual strain and promoting psychological well-being.Item Yoga based bhakti in Muttusvami Diksitar's compositions(SVYASA, 2022-09) B. Utpala Karanth; R. Rangan; P. V. S. laxmiBACKGROUND Some of the researchers generally focus on Dīkṣitar’s music aspect and others focus on his Bhakti aspect. This thesis is to explore how Dīkṣitar’s Bhakti becomes unique and takes a new shape when it evolves from Yoga and how this Yoga-based Bhakti is helpful to mankind. AIMS & OBJECTIVES To find the concept of Bhakti in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. To decipher Yoga-based Bhakti in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. To find several aspects of Bhakti eg, Navavidhā Bhakti (nine kinds of devotion) in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. To find the link of different emotions of Dīkṣitar with Rāgas adopted by him. To present how Dīkṣitar links concepts other than Bhakti with it. To connect the principles of Yoga and Bhakti found in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. METHODS Syntactical approach: searching for terms related to Bhakti in Dīkṣitar’s literature. Symantical approach: exploring the principles of Bhakti and Yoga in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. DESIGN This is a descriptive research analysing the literature of Dīkṣitar in the context of Bhakti and Yoga. ASSESSMENT This work explores the components of Bhakti described in Bhakti Śāśtras, like nine types of Bhakti and five Bhāvas, in Dīkṣitar’s compositions. Their subdivisions are also dealt. (E.g. Smaraṇa is the component of Bhakti. Cintana, Bhāvana and Upāsana are Smaraṇa’s subdivisons). viii Music and literature are two aspects of Dīkṣitar’s Bhakti. Researching the music aspect, a survey of connoisseurs has been made and the emotional stimuli that get kindled while listening to several compositions have been studied. Various reasons for the raise of several emotional variants listening to different songs are discussed. It has been concluded that different Rāgas have different potencies of emotions. One raga may have one or more potencies. Among potencies, a connoisseur extracts a particular potency based on his character. Thus recognition of an emotion of a Rāga is partially objective and partially subjective. Connoisseurs of rare personality traits may recognize the emotions that are hardly found by others. All Rāgas selected in this research may have peace as a fundamental potency. Researching the literature aspect, Alaṅkāra (figures of speech), Rasa (aesthetic sense) and Dhvani (tone) of the passages found in Dīkṣitar’s compositions are analyzed in detail. More than that the link between Bhakti and various principles of Yoga and Tantra like Āsana, Prāṇāyāma, Kuṇdalinī and Nādopāsana found in Dīkṣitar’s compositions are explored. CONCLUSION Dīkṣitar’s Bhakti is Kathenotheistic and therefore certainly non-fanatic. His Bhakti‟s objective is peace. His Bhakti emerges from the internal peace and it merges in it. This is his Yoga- based Bhakti. This kind of Bhakti is very relevant to society to lead a harmonious life