Effect of Pranayama and Meditation on Emotional Intelligence among Undergraduate Students: A Randomized Controlled Study
International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine July 10, 2024 Jairam Kushwaha, Vatsala Thapliyal, Sachin Sharma et al.
A 10-week program of daily pranayama and mindfulness (vipassana) meditation, practiced for 60 minutes each day, improved emotional intelligence and reduced anxiety, depression, and stress among undergraduate students aged 18 to 23. The randomized controlled trial with 150 students found significant enhancements in emotional intelligence and significant decreases in anxiety, depression, and stress in the experimental group compared to the control group, which continued usual activities. These results suggest that combining breathwork with mindfulness meditation can support emotional coping and mental well-being in university students.