Effectiveness of Raja Yoga Meditation on Depression, Anxiety and Stress in Females with Premenstrual Syndrome

Practicing Raja Yoga Meditation for eight weeks reduced depression, anxiety, and stress in females with premenstrual syndrome. Eight participants served as their own controls; baseline scores were recorded seven days before menstruation, then they trained for one week and practiced once daily six days a week for eight weeks under supervision. Post-intervention scores showed a significant decrease in depression, anxiety, and stress. The findings suggest Raja Yoga Meditation may help manage stress related to premenstrual syndrome.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The current study was undertaken to observe the effectiveness of Raja Yoga Meditation on depression, anxiety and stress in females with premenstrual syndrome. In the present study, a total of 8 participants were recruited and the participants served as self-controls. After recording the baseline values in premenstrual period (7 days before menstruation) of menstrual cycle, participants were trained Raja yoga meditation for a week days and then they have practiced for once in a day for six days in a week for 8 weeks under the supervision of a trainer. Post-intervention values were recorded after 8 weeks during premenstrual period. The following criteria were used in the selection of the participants. Results were presented in table no 1 and 2. Table no 1 present's demographic data of the participants and table no 2 present's depression, anxiety and stress scores before and after the intervention. There was a significant decrease in the scores of depression, anxiety and stress followed by the meditation (P<0.05). The study provides further evidence for the beneficial effects of practicing Raja yoga meditation in the management of stress. We recommend detailed studies in this area with more parameters and also recommend practicing the meditation in the regular life style.