Beneficial effect of twelve weeks Sri Vishnu Sahasranama chanting on stress, cognition and autonomic functions: A pilot study

Abstract

Vishnu Sahasranama means 1000 names of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. The 1000 names are in the 108 slokas are segregated and recited individually. In the present study, we have observed the effectiveness of Vishnu Sahastra nama chanting for stress management in a research scholar. The participant was given a training session of pronouncing the namas by Sanskrit expert for week days. After that he started chanting Sri Vishnusahastram every day at 8 am for 12 weeks. DASS-42 questionnaire and serum cortisol was used to assess of stress, blood pressure was recorded to assess autonomic functions and spatial, verbal memory test and MMSE were used to assess cognitive functions. All outcome measures were recorded before (baseline values) and after 12 weeks of chanting (post intervention). 3 readings were taken for 3 consecutive days and mean value was recorded. Depression, anxiety, stress and cortisol was significantly decreased and blood pressure was regulated within normal limits and MMSE scores and spatial memory was significantly improved followed by chanting. Though there is improvement in spatial memory, it is not statistically significant. Our study provides preliminary evidence for beneficial effects of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama chanting. We recommend further detailed studies in this area to recommend practicing Sri Vishnu Sahasranama chanting regularly.