“Om” chanting and its impact on selected neuropsychological functions: a literature overview

Authors

Suresh Kumar Thanneeru, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Roshan F. Sutar, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Vijendra Singh, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Anuradha Kushwah, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Saikat Das, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Mahendra Atlani, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, BhopalFollow
Madhukar Mittal, All India Institute of Medical Sciences BhopalFollow
Amit Agrawal, All India Institute of Medical Sciences BhopalFollow

Abstract

The "OM" mantra is one of the most sacred symbols in Indian culture, and Om chanting holds emotional, spiritual, and religious significance. The domain and spectrum of the impact of "Om" chanting include delta and theta brainwaves on EEG, overall EEG activity, asthma symptom control, quality of life, brain hemodynamics, and physiological and psychological effects of "Om" chanting and singing. It also plays a role in the management of major depressive disorder (MDD). "OM" listening or chanting activates the frontal lobe and supramarginal gyrus, promoting calmness, enhancing thinking processes, and improving memory. In the present review, we selectively examine articles that explore the role of "Om" chanting on various neuronal functions and describe the outcomes. In studies using fMRI, OM chanting significantly reduced activity in the insula, anterior cingulate, and orbitofrontal cortices. Although definitive conclusions cannot be drawn due to limitations in the study designs, most studies indicated a positive impact of Om chanting on anxiety, stress, and quality of life. Further research with better study designs and standardized chanting protocols may offer deeper insights into the effects of Om and other mantras.

Recommended Citation

Thanneeru, Suresh Kumar; Sutar, Roshan F.; Singh, Vijendra; Kushwah, Anuradha; Das, Saikat; Atlani, Mahendra; Mittal, Madhukar; and Agrawal, Amit (2022) "“Om” chanting and its impact on selected neuropsychological functions: a literature overview," Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences: Vol. 7: Iss. 2, Article 5.
Available at: https://impressions.manipal.edu/mjms/vol7/iss2/5