Improving Working Memory through Yogic Practices: The Role of Yoga Asanas and Meditation in Higher Education
International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research October 18, 2025 DOI: 10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.57139 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Pre-post intervention study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | University students |
| Interventions | Yoga āsanas Meditation |
| Duration | Six months of regular practice |
| Measures | WAIS-III |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Education |
| Key points | Six months of regular Yoga āsanas and meditation practice was associated with significant improvements in working memory among university students, as measured by the WAIS-III. The authors propose that Yoga and Meditation can serve as effective, non-invasive methods for improving cognitive performance, reducing academic stress, and fostering holistic development. |
Abstract
This study investigates the role of Yoga āsanas and Meditation in enhancing working memory (WM) among university students. Conducted in the spiritually enriched environment of Dayalbagh, Agra, known as the "Garden of the Merciful"—an environment imbued with spiritual vibrancy and tranquility, the intervention involved six months of regular practice comprising selected Yogic postures and meditation techniques rooted in Hindu philosophy. The central objective of this study was to investigate whether the systematic practice of Yoga and Meditation could enhance students’ working memory (WM). The rationale was that through the disciplined integration of Yogic postures and meditative practices, students could improve both their cognitive performance and decision-making capacities, while simultaneously mitigating academic stress and examination-related anxiety. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were carried out using the WAIS-III to measure working memory. Statistical analysis of the collected data revealed significant improvements in both WM following the intervention. The findings highlight the potential of Yoga and Meditation as effective, non-invasive methods for improving cognitive performance, reducing academic stress, and fostering holistic development among students.