The Influence of Rajyoga Meditation on Stress and Anxiety Management among Youth (Aged 15–29 Years in India): A Review

Youth in India, aged 15–29 years, face increasing stress and anxiety from academic, career, lifestyle, and sociocultural pressures. Rajyoga meditation, a spiritual and psychological practice from the Brahma Kumaris, is reviewed as a non-pharmacological tool for emotional regulation. Studies indicate that Rajyoga enhances cognitive control, promotes relaxation responses, and strengthens resilience against psychosocial stressors. However, limited large-scale and longitudinal research exists in the Indian youth context. The paper identifies research gaps, formulates hypotheses, and highlights the need for systematic investigation into Rajyoga's impact on youth mental health, with implications for education, public health, and youth policy.

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Abstract

Youth in India, aged 15–29 years, face increasing levels of stress and anxiety due to academic pressures, career uncertainties, lifestyle transitions, and sociocultural expectations. Rajyoga meditation, a spiritual and psychological practice introduced by the Brahma Kumaris, has gained attention as a non-pharmacological tool for emotional regulation and mental health management. This review aims to synthesize existing empirical and theoretical literature on the effectiveness of Rajyoga meditation in reducing stress and anxiety among youth. Studies indicate that Rajyoga enhances cognitive control, promotes relaxation responses, and strengthens resilience against psychosocial stressors. However, despite its growing popularity, limited large-scale and longitudinal research has been conducted in the Indian youth context. This paper identifies research gaps, formulates hypotheses, and highlights the need for systematic investigation into the impact of Rajyoga meditation on youth mental health. The review also discusses implications for educational institutions, public health initiatives, and youth development policies.