Impact of rajyoga meditation on stress and psychological well being during COVID-19 in India: A randomized control trial

Background: The mental health of healthcare workers suffered greatly during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Globally, various preventive and therapeutic strategies were explored. Rajyoga, one of the oldest yogic systems practiced in India for millennia, is accessible to all irrespective of place or time, making it a viable option for promotion of mental wellbeing. Objectives: To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of Rajyoga meditation among healthcare professionals working in hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A single-blinded, randomized interventional study was conducted from April 2021 to January 2022. A total of 240 healthcare professionals were recruited through snowball sampling using online Google Forms. Participants were assigned either to a control group receiving online relaxation music or an intervention group practicing Rajyoga meditation online. Pre- and post-intervention anxiety, stress, and well-being were assessed using validated tools: Generalized Anxiety Scale, Corona Anxiety Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and WHO Well-being Index. Findings: High levels of psychological distress were reported: 45.8 % had moderate to severe anxiety, 20.4 % had dysfunctional anxiety related to COVID-19, 6.7 % experienced elevated stress, and 68.7 % reported poor well-being. Rajyoga meditation led to significant reductions in anxiety and stress and improvements in well-being. Its effects were comparable to music therapy in relieving COVID-related psychological symptoms. Novelty: The study is distinctive in focusing on healthcare workers and assessing a cost- effective, accessible intervention. Its online format enhances feasibility and adherence to social distancing norms, making it suitable during public health crises.