Therapeutic Evaluation of Mind Sound Resonance Technique (A Guided Yogic Meditative Technique) on Human Psychophysiology – A Narrative Review

Abstract

Mind sound resonance technique (MSRT) is a yoga-based relaxation practice that incorporates mantra chanting and relaxation techniques. It is designed to address psychosomatic disorders by harmonizing the Manomaya Kosha and regulating autonomic nervous system (ANS) functions. This narrative review examines the effects of MSRT on various health parameters, including its ability to alleviate stress, anxiety, and chronic pain; promote better sleep; enhance cognitive, cardiovascular, and lung functions; and reduce smoking behavior. A review of 21 clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental studies, pre–post analyses, and case studies, assessed the therapeutic outcomes of MSRT. The studies were sourced from Google Scholar, PubMed, and PubMed Central. MSRT demonstrated significant reductions in anxiety, stress, and chronic pain, along with improved sleep quality, cognitive performance, and autonomic balance. It showed beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including lowered blood pressure and heart rate, and enhanced respiratory function. MSRT was effective in promoting mindfulness, emotion regulation, and smoking cessation. Its physiological effects include modulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis and ANS. MSRT is a holistic, noninvasive intervention with potential for managing psychosomatic disorders and promoting overall health. Further RCTs are warranted to explore its long-term efficacy and underlying mechanisms.

Introduction

Yoga is one of the oldest Indian traditional practices, which roots back to 5000 years, which comes from the Sanskrit root word “Yuj,” meaning union of one self with the universal soul.[1] Yoga, which focuses on the integration of body, mind, and spirit through the practice of physical postures, pranayama, and meditation.[2] Yoga is a way of life that should be incorporated into daily life to transform one’s personality and to improve overall well-being.[1,3,4] In general, yoga is considered a way of keeping oneself healthy and happy.[5]

According to the World Health Organization defines, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.[6] According to Yoga Vasista, all psychosomatic diseases arise from the mind (Manomaya Kosha), due to intensified mental conflicts (Adhis), which then percolate into Pranamaya Kosha (vital life force or subtle energy), which causes imbalance in the breathing and leads to dysfunction in the five channels of life force (Pancha Pranas), which then causes autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation, which is seen in the physical body as a disease (Vyadi).[7]

Mind sound resonance technique

Mind sound resonance technique (MSRT) is an advanced guided yogic meditative technique developed by SVYASA to especially enhance the defense and willpower, boosting health and happiness, fighting cancer, AIDS, and other ailments, and so enhancing quality of life.[8] MSRT is centered on the Mahamrityunjaya mantra [Table 1], fostering self-awareness and alleviating existential anxiety.[9] The mantra used in MSRT will generate resonance, which works on the Manomaya Kosha (mental sheath) [Table 1], which induces deep relaxation and improves overall health.[8]

Table 1.

Steps involved in the practice of mind sound resonance technique are given below

Prayer OM. Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanat Mrityor Mukshiya Mamritat. Meaning “OM We worship and adore you, O threeeyed one, O Shiva. You are sweet gladness, the fragrance of life, which nourishes us, restores our health, and causes us to thrive. As, in due time, the stem of the cucumber weakens, and the gourd is freed from the vine, so free us from attachment and death, and do not withhold immortality” a. Loud chanting of A, U, M, and AUM (3 rounds). Feel complete body resonance b. Āhata–Anāhata of A, U, M, and AUM next time A–,U–, and M–AUM (3 rounds). Feel the resonance even with Anāhata (mental) phase c. Loud chanting of Mrityunjaya Mantra (MM) d. Āhata–Anāhata of MM, MM, and MM (3 rounds) Anāhata AUM (9 rounds) and Ajapājapa AUM to silence (9 rounds). Stay in silence. Resolve, closing prayer (Shanti Mantra) (8)

What is mind?

According to neuroscientists, the mind is the expression of brain cell activity and represents the sum total of all cognitive functions performed by the wakeful state. According to Yoga, the mind is a collection of thoughts, categorized into the manifest mind and the unmanifest mind. The manifest mind is active and observable during wakeful and dream states, whereas the unmanifest mind remains dormant, as in deep sleep. In the wakeful state, the sense organs process inputs and evoke emotions. Emotions are powerful thoughts that can be either positive, such as joy, excitement, or happiness, or negative, often referred to as the “six enemies.” These negative emotions include intense desire, anger, greed, infatuation, arrogance, and jealousy. When suppressed and stored in the subconscious mind (citta), these negative emotions can percolate from the mental body to the physical body, potentially leading to chronic diseases.[8]

What is sound?

In scientific terms, sound is a form of energy that propagates as waves through compressions and rarefactions, requiring a medium like air to travel. Sound waves have two key aspects: amplitude, which corresponds to loudness, and frequency, which corresponds to pitch. The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch and shrillness of the sound. The intensity of sound is directly proportional to the distance it travels. The human hearing range spans frequencies from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (where one Hz equals one cycle per second). Sounds with frequencies below this range are termed infrasonic, whereas those above it are referred to as ultrasonic. In Yoga and spiritual traditions, Sabda (sound) is considered much broader and more comprehensive than the concept of sound in science. Sabda is spandana, meaning vibration or wave. This vibration is categorized into two types: audible (ahata) and inaudible (anahata). Anahata, or the unheard sound, refers to the inner resonance of a subtler, more profound sound. Most of the deep meditators hear the inner sound during the meditation and they hear the sound from their heart after intense practice Bhramari pranayama.[8]

What is resonance?

Oscillations with significantly larger amplitudes occur when the frequency of a driving function aligns with the natural frequency of a system (or object). This phenomenon is known as resonance.

Example:

An army camp was conducting training where soldiers marched in perfect rhythm, synchronizing their footsteps and hand movements. During their march, they crossed a bridge spanning a river. To everyone’s shock, the bridge collapsed as the army moved across. Scientists were called in to investigate the cause. They concluded that the synchronized rhythmic marching created a resonance with the natural frequency of the bridge, causing it to vibrate so intensely that it ultimately collapsed. Hence, resonance can be a powerful tool, capable of bringing about significant change when used in the right way. This phenomenon of resonance is utilized in musical instruments, such as the tambura, violin, or drums, by musicians to enhance the fullness of the sound after tuning to the desired pitch. Bhramari can generate resonance, producing a fine massaging effect throughout the body.[8]

Methodology

Search strategy

A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant scholarly articles evaluating the impact of MSRT on psychophysiological variables. The databases used for the search included PubMed, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar, covering studies published from January 2010 to April 2025. The search was restricted to peer-reviewed articles published in English.

Boolean operators (“AND,” “OR”) were used to construct the search strategy. Key search terms included:

• Mind Sound Resonance Technique OR MSRT

• MSRT AND anxiety

• MSRT AND cognition

• MSRT AND sleep quality

• MSRT AND quality of life

• MSRT AND pulmonary function test

• MSRT AND geriatric

• MSRT AND pain

• MSRT AND stress

• Meditation AND geriatric

• Meditation AND cardiac activity

• Meditation AND brain imaging.

Duplicates were removed using citation management tools and manual screening. The search strategy was designed following PRISMA 2020 guidelines for systematic reviews [Figure 1].

Figure 1.

PRISMA flow diagram for selecting the mind sound resonance technique article for review

Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Inclusion criteria

• Articles published in English

• Clinical trials, including:

  • Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

  • Quasi-experimental studies

  • Pre–post intervention studies

  • Case reports.

• Studies conducted on human participants

• Articles exploring the effects of MSRT on psychological, cognitive, physiological, or quality of life outcomes

• Full-text articles available.

Exclusion criteria

• Nonclinical studies (e.g., animal studies, in vitro research)

• Review articles, meta-analyses, editorials, or opinion pieces

• Studies with only abstracts available or without full-text access

• Cohort, cross-sectional, or observational studies not involving MSRT as an intervention

• Articles published in languages other than English

• Duplicate publications.

Results

Role of mind sound resonance technique on psychological health

Mind sound resonance technique and anxiety

Anxiety and its disorders are a common category of mental health issues also affect cognition and behavior.[10] There were many studies have shown that, MSRT is a special guided yogic meditative technique, helps in reducing anxiety related disorder [Table 2 and Figure 2]. MSRT helps reduce both state and trait anxiety (TA) in young male adults,[11] patients with generalized anxiety isorder (GAD),[12] patients with common neck pain (CNP),[25] IT professionals[22] and female school teachers.[15] It also reduces state anxiety (SA) in school children,[14] individuals with hypertension,[26] patients suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) and college students.[27] All these studies used Spielberger’s State-TA Inventory as an outcome measure.[11,12,14,15,22,25,26,27] Anxiety has been significantly reduced among geriatric participants, as measured by the Geriatric Anxiety Scale.[28] MSRT as a yoga based relaxation technique, influences the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which is associated with decreased amygdala activity in the brain, suppressing sympathetic activity and enhancing vagal tone.[26,29] This results in a reduction in anxiety levels.[12,30] OM chanting is associated with the deactivation of the thalami and hippocampi, which helps reduce the fear response.[31]

Table 2.

Psychological wellbeing

Author and year of publication		Study design		Total sample size		Subjects/age		Duration of the study		Outcome variables		Findings
Singh J et al. and 2024[11]		RCT		60		Male young adults/18–30 years		8 weeks		DASS, STAI – Y1 and Y2		Study has shown that, there was significant reduction in DASS score and STAI – Y1 and Y2. Hence study brings positive impact in reducing anxiety
Dhansoia et al. and 2015[12]		A self-controlled pilot study		15		Patient with Generalized anxiety disorder		Immediate effect		STAI; From X-1 and DLST		STAI scores were reduced, and DLST scores significantly increased after MSRT practice compared to baseline. In contrast, while STAI scores also decreased in the SR group, no significant changes were observed in DLST scores MSRT resulted in higher DLST scores and lower STAI scores compared to SR
Mohanty et al. and 2015[13]		Pilot study		43		Patients with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus/30–65 years		Immediate effect		DLST		Immediate practice of MSRT has a significant impact on enhancing psychomotor performance in patients with type 2 Diabetes mellitus
Anusuya et al. and 2021[14]		RCT		60		School children/14–16 years		2 weeks		STAI-SF, SMASS, MWQ, TMT		Statistical significance results were seen in STAI-SF scores, SMAAS scores, MWQ scores and each component of TMT scores
Rao et al. and 2017[15]		RCT		60		School teachers/30–55 years		30 min a day, 5 days a week, for 1 month		PSS, PSQI, DLST, STAI-X1 and Y1, GHQ-12, PFS, Self esteem		There was a statistically significant reduction in stress, anxiety, fatigue, and psychological distress levels. The relaxation technique also enhanced self-esteem and improved the quality of sleep among female teachers working in primary schools
Saoji A et al., 2017[16]		A randomized crossover trial		42		Medical students/19.44±1.31 years		30 min/day for 5 days a week, for 2 weeks		DLST and SLCT		Present study has shown a statistically significant improvement in DLST and SLCT net scores in the MSRT group compared to the SR group. This indicates that MSRT positively impacts cognitive performance among medical students
PS et al. and 2020[17]		Single group interventional pre-post study design		30		Elderly population/60–80 years		1 month		SLCT and TMT-B		The present study demonstrates a significant improvement in SLCT scores and a notable reduction in TMT-B scores. These findings suggest that MSRT enhances cognitive function and may help prevent dementia in the elderly population
Mohanty et al., 2025[18]		A randomised controlled trial		50		College students/19-30 years		5 days/week for 30 min for 30 days		Stroop task, HRV, PSS, Freiburg mindfulness inventory		The study has demonstrated that MSRT have significantly improved executive functions, such as accuracy and reaction time, cardiac health and enhanced psychological well-being among college students
Jindal and Sharma 2023[39]		Quasi experimental study		50		Senior citizens/60–90 years		10 sessions		PSS and ADL		A study demonstrated a significant reduction in PSS scores and an improvement in ADL scores among senior citizens
Vini Kamlesh Solanki et al. and 2023[41]		A single case report		1		36 years old female		IAYT + Naturopathy + Diet + MSRT for 27 days		PSQI		This study demonstrated that after 27 days of Yoga therapy practice, patients experienced a reduction in PSQI scores and began achieving sound sleep. Patient personally reported that practicing MSRT significantly improved her sleep quality
Smity Dhanjani et al. and 2018[20]		A pilot pre – post study		30		Elderly resident/60–85 years		15 days		PSQI		There was a statistically significant reduction in PSQI scores, indicating an improvement in sleep quality among the geriatric population
Meenakshi et al. and 2021[22]		A pilot study		100		IT professionals/25–40 years		45 min, 3 times a week for 1 month		STAI, POMS, PSQI		A single-group pre-post study demonstrated that practicing MSRT leads to a significant reduction in state and trait anxiety, total mood disturbances, and a notable improvement in global sleep quality among IT professionals
Saha et al. and 2023[23]		RCT		63		Secondary school students/7th and 8th standard students		30 min each day for 21 days		AS, CAMM, ERQ, BIS-Brief and life skills scale for creative thinking, critical thinking and interpersonal relationship		Present study demonstrated that MSRT intervention significantly improved psycho-emotional variables such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, creative thinking, critical thinking, and interpersonal relationships, while also showing a notable reduction in aggression and impulsivity compared to the control group among adolescents
Sonali Hadke et al. and 2024[43]		A pilot study		60		Special education teachers		20 min, 3 times a week, for 1 month		SPHS, EMS, STS		The present study indicates that the MSRT, when used in counseling, enhances personality traits such as psychological hardiness, emotional maturity, and stress tolerance among teachers of children with special needs

RCT: Randomized controlled trial, MSRT: Mind sound resonance technique, BIS: Brief Barratt’s Impulsivity Scale-Brief, ERQ: Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, CAMM: Children Assessment of Mindfulness, AS: Aggression Scale, PSQI: Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index, STAI: Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, PSS: Perceived Stress Scale, HRV: Heart rate variability, TMT-B: Trail Making Task-B, DLST: Digit letter substitution test, SLCT: Six-Letter Cancellation Task, GHQ: General Health Questionnaire, SMAAS: State Mindfulness attention Awareness Scale, MWQ: Mind Wandering Questionnaire, EMS: Emotional Maturity using Emotional Maturity, STS: Stress Tolerance Scale, SPHS: Singh Psychological Hardiness Scale, POMS: Profile of Mood States questionnaire, PFS: Piper Fatigue Scale

Figure 2.

Illustration of mechanism of mind sound resonance technique on physical and psychological parameters. Self-designed conceptual summary based on the synthesis of findings from the reviewed literature

Mind sound resonance technique and psychoemotional wellbeing

Psychological and emotional well-being are important components of mental health because they influence how people think, feel, and behave, and are essential for functioning effectively in all areas of life.[32] Anxiety and depression are the most prevalent mental health conditions globally.[33] The practice of MSRT has shown significant improvements in psychoemotional variables such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, creative thinking, critical thinking, and interpersonal relationships, along with a substantial reduction in aggression and impulsivity in adolescents[23] [Table 2].

The MSRT incorporates the chanting of OM, which is associated with limbic deactivation. This process represents a neurohemodynamic correlation of OM chanting, highlighting its calming effects on the brain’s emotional center.[34] The practice of MSRT helps reduce aggressiveness and impulsivity while enhancing mindfulness, guiding practitioners to turn their focus inward. Chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra enhances energy levels, promotes harmony between the mind and body, and fosters improved creative and critical thinking.[23]

Mind sound resonance technique and cognition

The term “cognition” encompasses a broad range of mental abilities and processes essential for learning and applying information. These include focus, memory (both short-term and working), evaluation and judgment, reasoning, and calculation, problem-solving, decision-making, and language comprehension and production. Stress is known to impair cognitive abilities.[35] Studies have shown that the practice of MSRT enhances cognitive and psychosocial functions [Figure 1] in children.[14] Furthermore, improvements in cognitive performance have been observed across various populations following MSRT practice, including Type 2 diabetes patients (as measured by the Digit Letter Substitution Task [DLST]),[13] female teachers,[15] the elderly (using the Six-Letter Cancellation Task [SLCT] and Trail Making Test-B),[17] patients with GAD[12] and medical students (using DLST and SLCT),[16] and It enhances working memory, as assessed by the Digit Span Test, among high school children.[36] MSRT has been found to significantly improve executive functions, as evidenced by enhanced accuracy and reduced reaction times on cognitive tasks such as the Stroop test among college students.[18]

These effects are attributed to the practice of guided yogic meditative technique, which induces structural and functional brain changes, particularly prefrontal cortex (PFC) and improve autonomic function by triggering neurohormonal mechanisms. This process suppresses sympathetic activity through the downregulation of the HPA axis,[18,37] thereby enhancing cognitive behavior.[30] MSRT offers dual benefits, functioning both as a meditative and a relaxative practice. Its relaxation effect may reduce cortisol secretion by alleviating stress, potentially providing a neuroprotective effect through elevated levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. In addition, the meditative aspect of MSRT is linked to inhibiting GABAergic cortisol suppression, a mechanism implicated in enhancing cognitive performance and improving emotional regulation[17,38] [Table 2].

Mind sound resonance technique and perceived stress

Stress is a natural physiological and psychological response to internal or external stimuli (stressors) that induces changes across various body systems and impacts behavior and daily activities.[19] Regular practice of MSRT has been shown to significantly reduce stress levels, as conceptually represented in Figure 2 based on the reviewed literature and enhance activities of daily living, [Table 2] particularly among senior citizens.[39] Another study on geriatric participants demonstrated that an 8-week practice of MSRT as a meditation significantly reduced perceived stress scores, thereby alleviating stress,[28] and also perceived stress scale scores were reduced after MSRT practice among college students[18] and in patients with CMP[40] and MSRT has also been shown to enhance mindfulness and promote mental well-being.[18]

Mind sound resonance technique and quality of sleep

Sleep is an essential and restorative process that connects overall health and well-being.[20,21] Sleep deprivation and prolonged sleep restriction can lead to circadian misalignment, profoundly affecting physical, mental, and emotional health, while increasing the risk of aging and various psychosomatic disorders.[21] Studies have demonstrated that practice of MSRT significantly improves sleep quality [Figure 2], as evidenced by improving Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores in the geriatric population,[20,28] female teachers.[15] In addition, a case report highlighted the efficacy of MSRT as an adjunct to Integrated Approach to Yoga Therapy (IAYT) in improving sleep quality in individuals with stress-induced insomnia,[41] Furthermore, a pilot study found that regular practice of MSRT enhanced sleep quality among IT professionals.[22] MSRT also enhances sleep quality by improving Sleep Rating Questionnaire scores in patients with CMP[40] [Table 2].

MSRT, a guided yogic meditative technique, facilitates a state of relaxation by modulating the ANS. This modulation reduces physiological arousal, increases oxygen consumption, and helps alleviate stress and anxiety, ultimately contributing to an increase in total sleep time, additionally enhances willpower and promotes positive health.[20]

Mind sound resonance technique and personality characteristics

Personality characteristics are traits that define how an individual thinks, feels, and behave.[42] Self-confidence, sociability, aggressiveness, dominance, and persistence are some of the traits commonly found in individuals.[24] The practice of MSRT serves to improve psychological hardiness, emotional maturity, and stress tolerance among teachers of children with special needs.[43] MSRT works on the psyche, influencing the functioning of the mind. As a guided relaxation technique, it plays a role in enhancing personality development [Table 2].

Role of mind sound resonance technique on cardiovascular health

Hypertension is a major global health problem and leading cause of death all over the world.[44] Whereas stress is the major cause of the disease, relaxation techniques have a significant impact on improving cardiac health.[45] The vagus nerve plays a crucial role in stress reduction and maintaining autonomic balance. It governs “rest and digest” functions and aids the body in recovering from stressful situations. Higher vagal tone is associated with greater stress resilience, improved cardiovascular health, and enhanced emotional regulation. In contrast, low vagal tone is linked to increased vulnerability to stress and a higher risk of health-related problems[46] [Table 3]. MSRT is a yoga-based relaxation technique having an effect on reducing blood pressure and heart rate (HR) [Figure 2] among hypertension individuals.[26] Emotional dysregulation negatively impacts the ANS, leading to changes in HR and a reduction in heart rate variability (HRV), both of which are indicators of reduced physiological adaptability and resilience.[47] The practice of MSRT has been shown to promote emotional regulation by calming the mind and restoring ANS balance. Consequently, regular MSRT practice may enhance HR and modulate HRV, reflecting improved autonomic function [Figure 2] and emotional stability among college students[27] and individuals experiencing occupational stress.[9]

Table 3.

Cardiac health and brain health

Author and year of publication		Study design		Total sample size		Subjects/age		Duration of the study		Outcome variables		Findings
Wang et al. and 2018[26]		A pilot study (Self-as-control design)		30		Patient with hypertension/30–60 years		Immediate study (30 min)		Cardiac variables (blood pressure and HR), State anxiety		The findings suggest that practicing MSRT helps reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and state anxiety in individuals with hypertension
Mohanty et al. and 2024[27]		A RCT		50		Healthy students/19–30 years		30 min per day, for 5 days, for 1 month		fNIRS, HRV, RR, STAI-Y1, MAAS		The study demonstrates that practicing MSRT increases cerebral oxygenation to the PFC, enhances HR, modulates HRV, significantly reduces anxiety, and improves mindfulness among students

HR: Heart rate, HRV: HR variability, MSRT: Mind sound resonance technique, NIRS: Infrared Spectroscopy Study, STAI: Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, MAAS: Mindfulness attention Awareness Scale, PFC: Prefrontal cortex

MSRT incorporates the chanting of A, U, M, OM, and the Mahamruthyunjaya mantra. During the practice, participants perform deep inhalation followed by slow, controlled exhalation. This combination of mantra chanting and slow-paced breathing helps balance sympatho-vagal tone, resulting in reductions in blood pressure and HR.[26] The increased low-frequency component of HRV observed during MSRT practice is linked to enhanced vagal tone[48] and improves cardiac health and stress resilience among college students.[18] Furthermore, the practice downregulates HPA axis activity, which is associated with decreased amygdala activity in the brain, thereby reducing fear and anxiety.[26,29]

Role of mind sound resonance technique on brain health

The PFC, a critical region of the brain, is responsible for regulating impulsive behaviors, supporting cognitive functions, and facilitating emotional regulation.[49] Evidence suggests that practicing MSRT enhances oxygenation to the PFC, leading to improved cognitive performance and mental well-being[27] [Table 3 and Figure 2].

Increased cerebral oxygenation ensures the brain receives an adequate supply of oxygen, which is essential for optimal cognitive performance.[50] The focused attention on deep breathing and chanting during MSRT practice enhances cerebral oxygenation, facilitating relaxation and increasing parasympathetic activity. This promotes a sense of calm,[31] improves attention and self-awareness, and supports overall brain health.[27] Regular practice of MSRT can promote a greater sense of clarity and focus, positively impacting both mental and physical well-being.[15] Regular practice of mindful meditation induces long-term structural changes in the brain, including increased grey matter density in the PFC. These structural changes signify enhanced neural connections and more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to critical brain regions.[51] Mantra chanting, particularly the repetition of “Om,” has been shown to synchronize brain activity and promote specific brain wave patterns associated with relaxation, focus, and creativity. It increases alpha and theta wave activity in EEG, which helps induce a relaxed state and reduce stress. In addition, Mantra chanting plays a significant role in enhancing neuroplasticity. The repetitive nature of chanting, combined with the resonance of specific sounds, stimulates neural pathways, as evidenced by increased gray and white matter volume in brain regions associated with attention, memory, and emotional regulation.[52] Functional magnetic resonance imaging research has identified activation of specific brain regions during mantra chanting, including the anterior cingulate cortex, hippocampus, angular gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus. These areas are associated with attention regulation, cognitive control, and emotional processing.[53]

Role of mind sound resonance technique on musculoskeletal pain

Pain serves as a critical function of the nervous system, acting as a warning mechanism for potential or actual injury. It is both a sensory and emotional experience, influenced by psychological factors such as past experiences, beliefs about pain, and associated fear or anxiety.[54] Neck pain is a significant public health concern that contributes to anxiety, depression, and a reduced quality of life.[55] MSRT works through the Manomaya Kosha, inducing deeper relaxation for both the body and mind [Table 1]. This, in turn, helps reduce pain, tenderness, disability [Figure 2], and anxiety in patients suffering from chronic neck pain.[25]

Another study has shown that both MSRT and progressive muscle relaxation techniques are equally effective in reducing pain and improving the neck disability index score in individuals with CNP.[56] Another study demonstrated that when MSRT was practiced as an adjunct therapy to IAYT, compared to supine rest (SR), both groups showed significant improvements in sleep quality, pain scores, SA, and perceived stress. However, those who practiced MSRT at bedtime reported feeling more rested upon waking in the morning compared to the SR group in patients with CMP.[40] Another study conducted on geriatric participants found that practicing MSRT as a meditation significantly reduced musculoskeletal pain, stress, and anxiety while improving sleep quality.[28]

Pain is closely interlinked with psychological parameters. The practice of MSRT, a guided yogic meditative technique, enhances parasympathetic nervous system activity by modulating the HPA axis. This process reduces allostatic load, subsequently lowering inflammation. As a result, MSRT helps alleviate chronic stress and anxiety, improves sleep quality, and reduces pain associated with chronic conditions and improves quality of life[28,57] [Table 4].

Table 4.

Musculoskeletal pain

Author and year of publication		Study design		Total sample size		Subjects/age		Duration of the study		Outcome variables		Findings
Vinaya et al. and 2024[28]		A RCT		70		Geriatrics/above 60 years		30 min/day, for 8 weeks		MSHQ, PSQI, PSS-10, GAS		The study demonstrated significant improvement in MSHQ and PSQI scores, along with reductions in GAS and PSS scores. These findings suggest that the practice of MSRT effectively reduces musculoskeletal pain, stress, and anxiety while enhancing sleep quality among the geriatric population.
Yogitha et al. and 2010[25]		A RCT		60		Patient with chronic neck pain/20–70 years		20 min MSRT + 30 min of physiotherapy program		V PAS, Spinal flexibility, Neck disability score, STAI-Y1		The study demonstrated a significant reduction in pain, disability, and state anxiety, along with improved flexibility in patients with CNP following the practice of MSRT combined with conventional physiotherapy
Mayuri rajesh shaha et al. and 2019[56]		A Comparative study		30		Patient with CNP/18–24 years		Group A- MSRT + physiotherapy Group B- PMR + physiotherapy 2 weeks, 5 days a week, 60 min per session		NDI, VAS		The study demonstrated a significant reduction in pain and disability in both the MSRT and PMR groups, with comparable outcomes among individual with CNP
Jindal et al. and 2023[39]		A matched control trial		62		Patients suffering from CMP/49.08±12.11 years		IAYT + MSRT IAYT + SR 30 min of MSRT/SR at bed time s an add on therapy		SRQ, PSS, STAI-X1, VAS		This study suggests that incorporating both MSRT and SR for 30 min at bedtime as part of an IAYT enhances sleep quality while reducing stress, pain, and anxiety levels in CMP patients. Furthermore, patients practicing MSRT reported feeling significantly more rested the following morning compared to those practicing SR, highlighting the superior restorative benefits of MSRT

RCT: Randomized controlled trial, PSQI: Pittsburgh sleep quality index, PSS: Perceived Stress Scale, GAS: Geriatric Anxiety scale, CNP: common neck pain, MSRT: Mind sound resonance technique, STAI: Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, NDI: Neck disability index, VAS: Visual Aanalogue Scale, PMR: Progressive Muscle Relaxation, IAYT: Integrated Approach to Yoga Therapy, SR: Supine rest, CMP: Chronic musculo-skeletal pain, PAS: Pain Analogue Scale

Tension associated with stress is primarily stored in the neck muscles, diaphragm, and nervous system. This tension can interfere with the coordination of different muscle groups, affecting overall physical and mental well-being.[56]

Muscle relaxation with the practice of guided yogic meditative technique triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, GABA, and endorphins, collectively known as “feel-good hormones.” These chemicals enhance parasympathetic activity,[56,58] reducing anxiety, stress, and pain perception. In addition, they promote flexibility and alleviate pain.[12]

Role of mind sound resonance technique on lung function

Mind sound resonance technique and smokers

Smoking is a leading cause of death globally, primarily impacting the respiratory system.[59] MSRT practice has been shown to improve lung function and breath-holding time (BHT), while also reducing withdrawal symptoms, cravings, urges, and negative affect among smokers. These benefits are attributed to MSRT’s ability to enhance internal awareness and decrease impulsivity[60] [Table 5 and Figure 2].

Table 5.

Lung function and smoking behavior

Author and year of publication		Study design		Total sample size		Subjects/age		Duration of the study		Outcome variables		Findings
Girishankara et al. and 2024[56]		A RCT		80		Smokers/18–60 years		25 min/day, for 10 days		PFT, BHT, SASEQ, MTWSrevised, QSUBrief		The study demonstrates that practicing MSRT significantly improves pulmonary function and BHT while also reducing withdrawal symptoms, cravings, smoking urges, and negative affect among smokers

RCT: Randomized controlled trial, PFT: Pulmonary function test, BHT: Breath holding time, SASEQ: Smoking Abstinence SelfEfficacy Questionnaire, MTWSrevised: Minnesota Tobacco Withdrawal Revised Scale, QSUBrief: Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges, MSRT: Mind sound resonance technique

Clinical Application and Limitation

Despite presenting strong evidence for the benefits of MSRT, the study has several limitations that should be acknowledged. First, a small sample size may limit the statistical power and generalizability of the findings. The absence of a long-term follow-up makes it difficult to assess the sustained effects of the intervention. In addition, without a control or active comparator group, it is challenging to differentiate the specific effects of MSRT from placebo or nonspecific factors such as attention and relaxation. The reliance on self-reported measures may introduce response bias, and the lack of blinding could contribute to performance or detection bias. Heterogeneity in participant characteristics, such as differences in age, health status, or prior experience with yoga or meditation, may also influence outcomes. Furthermore, the study may not adequately explore the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms, such as changes in vagal tone or brain activity. Cultural and contextual factors may further limit the applicability of the findings to broader or non-familiar populations. Addressing these limitations in future research would enhance the rigor and applicability of evidence supporting MSRT.

Integrating MSRT into clinical psychology, cardiology, and stress management programs presents several barriers that must be addressed for widespread adoption. One significant challenge is the lack of standardized protocols, making it difficult for healthcare providers to implement MSRT consistently across diverse clinical populations. Additionally, while emerging research supports its benefits, there is a limited number of large-scale, high-quality clinical trials validating its effectiveness, leading to skepticism among practitioners who rely on evidence-based interventions. MSRT’s roots in traditional yogic and spiritual practices may also create a perceived lack of scientific rigor, particularly in western medical contexts, further contributing to resistance among clinicians. Cultural and philosophical differences can pose another barrier, as the mantra-based nature of MSRT, including sounds like “Om,” may not be acceptable or relatable to all patients due to varying religious or secular beliefs.

Practical issues within clinical settings also hinder integration. Time constraints, lack of reimbursement, and rigid treatment schedules often leave little room for practices like MSRT, which may be seen as non-essential. Moreover, there is a shortage of trained professionals capable of delivering MSRT in a medically appropriate and standardized way, requiring significant investment in training and certification. Insurance coverage and policy support for such interventions are also limited, reducing incentives for healthcare institutions to adopt them. Finally, patient engagement and adherence can be a challenge, particularly for individuals unfamiliar or uncomfortable with chanting-based practices. Addressing these barriers through rigorous research, clinician education, cultural adaptation, and policy support is crucial to facilitate the successful integration of MSRT into mainstream healthcare practices.

Future Directions

1. Larger, well-designed RCTs are necessary to investigate the effects of MSRT on psychosomatic, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases. These studies should aim to elucidate the underlying physiological and neurological mechanisms, thereby strengthening the evidence base for future systematic reviews and clinical applications

2. A comparative analysis of MSRT with other established meditation techniques, such as mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and transcendental meditation (TM), along with its potential applications in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, highlights MSRT’s unique therapeutic potential. Its distinctive approach – utilizing sound resonance and vagal nerve stimulation – may enhance neuroplasticity, emotional regulation, and autonomic balance, making it a promising complementary intervention in integrative healthcare.

Conclusion

MSRT, developed by SVYASA, is a yoga-based relaxation practice aimed at strengthening the body’s defenses, enhancing willpower, and promoting overall health and happiness. It has been found beneficial in managing conditions such as cancer, AIDS, and other chronic ailments, thereby improving the quality of life. Many illnesses are believed to stem from unresolved mental conflicts, which disrupt breathing and affect the physical body, leading to psychosomatic disorders. MSRT uniquely addresses these challenges by working through the Manomaya Kosha (mental sheath), offering a harmonious blend of meditation and relaxation that effectively soothes both mind and body. Previous scientific literature has demonstrated that the practice of yoga-based relaxation techniques positively impacts the body’s metabolic, cardiac, respiratory, and neurocognitive functions. These effects enhance the body’s innate healing capacity and contribute to the prevention of various psychosomatic diseases.

Clinical studies have demonstrated that MSRT effectively reduces anxiety, stress, fatigue, and chronic pain, while improving cognitive function, sleep quality, and cardiovascular health, including blood pressure and HR. MSRT also enhances oxygenation to the PFC, supports lung function, and reduces smoking behaviors by alleviating withdrawal symptoms, cravings, urges, and negative emotions. These outcomes are primarily attributed to the modulation of the ANS and the regulation of the HPA axis, contributing to overall physiological and psychological well-being across diverse population. However, despite these encouraging findings, current limitations such as small sample sizes, short-term interventions, lack of standardized protocols, and limited mechanistic studies underscore the need for more rigorous, large-scale RCTs. Comparative studies with established mindfulness techniques such as MBSR and TM are also warranted to delineate MSRT’s unique therapeutic potential, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.