Effects of Yoga and Om Meditation on Stress and Mindfulness Among University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: University students frequently experience significant stress due to various factors, including academic pressure. Mindfulness-based interventions, such as yoga and Om meditation, show promise in reducing stress and improving mental well-being. However, further research is needed to determine their efficacy, particularly among university students.Aim.To evaluate the effectiveness of yoga and Om meditation in reducing stress and enhancing mindfulness among university students over a six-week period.Methodology.A total of 35 university students were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (yoga and Om meditation) or the waitlist control group. The intervention group participated in a structured six-week program consisting of daily yoga sessions combined with Om meditation. Stress levels were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and mindfulness was measured using the Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory (FMI). Data analysis included paired sample t-tests to evaluate within-group differences and independent t-tests to compare between-group differences.Results.The normality test indicated that FMI data were normally distributed in the yoga group. A paired sample t-test revealed a statistically significant increase in mindfulness scores (p < .001). In contrast, the PSS data were not normally distributed in the yoga group. Consequently, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used, showing a statistically significant reduction in stress scores (p < .001).Conclusion.This study suggests that a six-week combined yoga and Om meditation intervention significantly enhances mindfulness and reduces stress among university students, highlighting the potential of these practices to promote student mental health.