Effect of Trataka Kriyaon Selected Psychological Parameters in School Teachers During the COVID- 19 Pandemic Situation- A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives: The present study focused on investigating the impact of Trataka on stress-related ailments associated with online teaching and lockdown conditions among school teachers. The main objective of the study is to assess the effect of regular Trataka Kriya practice on Perceived Stress, Anxiety, Self-Perception, Parental Stress, Mental Well Being and Occupational Stress in School Teachers during the COVID- 19 Pandemic. Methods: The present study is a two-arm, randomized controlled trial. Both male and female teachers of age ranging from 35 to 50 Yrs., having no health complications, as well as, those not practicing Trataka Kriya routinely, were enrolled in the study. The study volunteers matched in respect of age and gender, were then divided into an experimental (n= 52) and a wait-listed control group (n= 52) with the help of Block Randomization method. Of the 104 teachers selected for the study, 68 completed the entire protocol. Data were collected at two time points at pre-testing (T0) and post-testing (T1). Results: Results showed a significant reduction in perceived stress (p = 0.003), generalized anxiety (p = 0.006), parental stress (p < 0.0001), and occupational stress index (p <0.0001) in the experimental group. The experimental group results also showed significant improvement in self-perception (p <0.0001), mental well-being (p <0.0001) and sleep quality (p = 0.054). Conclusion: Trataka Kriya practice has shown to significantly improve mental well-being, self-perception, and reduce anxiety and stress levels among school teachers.