Impact of gayatri sadhana camp on stress and well-being parameters: A mixed-method study
Nitesh Sharma, J. Kumar, Viralkumar Patel, Rahul Garg
Journal of Applied Consciousness Studies 2024 DOI: 10.4103/jacs.jacs_152_23 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Mixed-method study Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 32 |
| Population | Participants attending a residential Gayatri Sadhana camp (18 males, 14 females; mean age 50.44 years) |
| Duration | Residential camp (duration not specified) |
| Measures | Scale of Positive and Negative Experience, Scale of General Well-Being, Peace of Mind Scale, Perceived Stress Scale |
| Key points | Participants showed significant improvement in positive affect, general well-being, and peace of mind, and significant reductions in stress and negative affect (P < 0.01) from before to after the camp. Qualitative interviews revealed mental health benefits across various domains and correlated with questionnaire responses. The authors conclude that Gayatri Sadhana appears to have potential to alleviate stress and enhance well-being. |
Abstract
Background: Meditation using mantras is widely practiced in India and the world. Among the ancient Vedic mantras, the Gayatri Mantra (GM) holds profound significance. Despite its importance, limited scientific studies explore its effects. However, the research on the comprehensive effect of GM sadhana, including its components as explained in the traditional text, has been underexplored. Therefore, this study explores the effect of GM-based practices in a camp on the stress and well-being indicators of individuals by employing a mixed-method study design. Methodology: The study involved 32 participants (18 males, 14 females; mean age = 50.44 years) attending a residential camp of Gayatri Sadhana. Psychological assessments were conducted using the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience, Scale of General Well-Being, Peace of Mind Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale, at the beginning and end of the camp. In addition, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interview schedules to understand the participant's experiences with the Gayatri Sadhana program.
Results: Result showed a significant improvement in positive affect, general well-being, peace of mind, and a significant reduction in stress and negative affect among all participants (P < 0.01). The qualitative interview responses revealed mental health benefits across various domains. The findings from the standard questionnaire strongly correlated with the qualitative responses from the interview schedule.
Conclusion: Gayatri Sadhana appears to possess the potential to alleviate stress and enhance the general well-being of individuals. This study sheds light on the benefits of this ancient mantra-based practice and suggests its relevance in promoting overall well-being.