Medical students often experience high levels of stress, which can negatively impact their mental and physical health. Elevated stress levels activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to increased serum cortisol, a key biomarker of stress. Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY) is a holistic practice that incorporates meditation, breathing techniques, and physical exercises,...
Research shows that skills for improving Psychological Well-Being (PWB) may be learned through PWB interventions; however, the dynamic mechanisms underlying this learning process are not well understood. Using an Ecological Momentary Intervention (EMI) design, we conducted an 8-week Randomized Controlled Trial (N = 160; aged 18-22 years), implemented in a mobile Health (mHealth) platform to...
Scientific findings reveal regular practice of traditional mind body exercises may reduce the invasion of chronic stressors and regain psychophysiological balance. This neuroautonomic relationship is assessed through several electrophysiological tools Heart Rate Variability (HRV) being one such measure. The present study compares the long-term cardio autonomic effects of yogasana - the physical...
Background: DNA methylation (DNAm) is an epigenetic process of addition or reduction of methyl groups to genes that modify gene expression and can alter the physiological response to psychological stress. DNAm associated with psychological stress is malleable, making it a prime target for psychobehavioral interventions. Research is beginning to examine changes in DNAm in response to...
This systematic review assessed use of third-wave psychotherapies in reducing psychological distress and improving psychological well-being and quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease and critically evaluated intervention adaptations. A literature search, conducted across five databases identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating third-wave psychotherapies for...
Prayer beads, referred to as a Japamala or rosary, are significant artifacts across diverse religious traditions, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism. This paper aims to explore the importance of prayer beads in Hinduism and Buddhism, with a focus on a comparative analysis between Indian and Chinese traditions. Japamala, which typically consists of 108 beads, is utilized for mantra...
In this article, I begin with the topic of “circulations”, conducting a comparative analysis of the similarities and differences in Emerson’s and Zhuangzi’s philosophies regarding “circulations” as the mode of cosmic generation and operation, as well as the relationship between “circulations” and self-transcendence. Furthermore, I explore the practical paths to achieve self-transcendence via...
medRxivMay 29, 2025Paul B. Fitzgerald, Sara Webb, Nigel Christopher Denning et al.2 citations
preprint
Abstract Objective Despite many decades of experimental studies and clinical trials involving a variety of psychedelic agents, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of the effects of these substances on psychological experiences. As such, we designed and conducted a study to comprehensively characterise the effects of both psilocybin and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) on a range...
Abstract: Background: Although clinical trials of psychedelics have reported therapeutic benefits, the effects of illicit psychedelic use may be different because of drug quality and influences upon consumption circumstances. This study used a battery of psychological measures to examine the effects related to illicit psychedelic consumption. Method: Psychedelic use was an independent variable...
This study introduces a contemplative and guided meditation practice-based training model— grounded in the principles of Samatvam (equanimity), as articulated in the Bhagavad Gita. The model was developed to support a national-level swimmer in enhancing both competitive performance and psychological well-being. Adapting the core virtues and practices associated with the philosophy of Samatvam...