In a groundbreaking study conducted at the Human Sleep Research Lab of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune, researchers have discovered that the ancient yogic practice of Yoga Nidra holds the key to enhancing brain function, memory, and overall cognitive performance. The findings, recently published in the international journal ‘PLOS ONE,’ reveal the potential of Yoga Nidra to not only make individuals smarter but also to improve their sleep quality.
The study, led by Col Karuna Datta, Professor & Head of the Department of Sports Medicine at AFMC, employed a supervised approach to Yoga Nidra, showcasing significant improvements in the cognitive abilities of healthy volunteers. Reaction times and accuracy in various cognitive challenges were notably enhanced in the group practicing Yoga Nidra.
Lt Gen Narendra Kotwal, Director and Commandant of AFMC, emphasized the importance of scientifically validating ancient traditions. He praised the efforts of the researchers, highlighting the value of integrating specialized yogic techniques to improve human function. The project coordinator, Lt Gen Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd), Former Dean of AFMC and current Vice Chancellor of MUHS Nashik, received acknowledgment for her support.
The published research is available at PLOS ONE.
The implications of this study extend beyond individual well-being, suggesting potential applications of Yoga Nidra in broader populations. Col Karuna expressed optimism about the technique’s efficacy in both illness and wellness contexts, paving the way for future research.
Funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) SATYAM, the project enabled AFMC to establish a state-of-the-art Human Sleep Research Lab. Maj Gen D Vivekanand, Dean and Deputy Commandant of AFMC Pune, commended the project as a shining example of translational research—a key priority for the prestigious institute.
