Stress and anxiety are the leading cause of adult disability worldwide and underlying factors in many disorders such as depression, cardiovascular disease, obesity, chronic pain, gastrointestinal and sleep disorders.
This study was conducted on 142 participants of a 3-day non-residential Inner Engineering retreat to investigate the effect of Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya (SMK) practice on perceived stress levels and general well being. Participants were instructed to practice SMK twice a day for at least 6 weeks.
Perceived stress scores for those practicing Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya. Regular practices results in significant reduction in perceived stress.
General wellbeing scores for those practicing Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya. Regular practice results in significant improvement in general wellbeing.
An online survey designed to measure perceived stress levels and general well being was completed by study participants once before the retreat and once again 6 weeks after the retreat. Analysis of the results show a significant decrease in perceived stress levels and a significant increase in general well being scores within 6 weeks of regular practice.
These findings suggest that a regular SMK practice may represent an effective, natural and low-cost method for stress reduction and improving general wellbeing.
Publication
Effects of Shambhavi Mahamudra Kriya, a Multicomponent Breath-Based Yogic Practice (Pranayama), on Perceived Stress and General Well-Being