Melodies for the gut : A Randomised Double-Arm Pilot Study to assess the effect of Mantra Therapy with Hymn (prayer) on Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index

Background: Manipur Chakra situated at naval region governs the digestive health and affects the functions of the abdominal organs. Intoning the Beeja mantra of Manipur Chakra may activate its vitality and dormant potential. The study aims to evaluate the effect of Beeja Mantra therapy on gut health using Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index scale. Material and Method: In the study, total 50 participants between the age group of 20 to 60 without any chronic digestive issues, who gave informed consent were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups; study group (Beeja mantra chanting) and control group (prayer chanting). Study group was asked to follow the regime of chanting Ram Beeja mantra (108 times) and Rama Raksha Stotra (once) while control group was asked to recite Nirvan Shtakam (once a day) for a duration of 30 days. GIQLI Scale was used to evaluate the effect of mantra meditation on gastrointestinal health at three different time points day 0, day 15, day 30. The statistical analysis was done using non-parametric tests of significance, Friedman ANOVA and Mann Whitney U test. Result: When both the groups were compared, the study group showed a notably higher mean difference compared to the control group with a significant p-value for Domain 1, Domain 2, Domain 3, Domain5 whereas Domain 4 did not show a significant difference between the two groups, as indicated by a non-significant p-value (0.349, NS). Conclusion: Mind body interventions like mantra therapy can enhance the gastrointestinal quality of life index scale.