Om Chanting and Health: Insights into Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology

Background: ‘Om’ chanting, an ancient practice rooted in Hindu scriptures, symbolizes the universe’s essence and is believed to promote physiological balance through rhythmic sound vibrations. It is thought to influence autonomic functions and has been associated with relaxation effects similar to meditation. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effects of ‘Om’ chanting on heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory endurance in healthy adults over a 4-week period. Methods: A total of 63 healthy volunteers aged 18-50 years participated in this cross-sectional prospective study. Baseline measurements of heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory endurance were taken. Participants underwent a 5-minute ‘Om’ chanting session daily for 4 weeks. Immediate post-chanting measurements and measurements after 4 weeks were compared using paired t-tests. Results: Significant reductions were observed in pulse rate (from 80.65 ± 8.92 to 76.91 ± 7.09 beats per minute) and systolic blood pressure (from 113.37 ± 9.4 to 110.13 ± 9.85 mm Hg) immediately after ‘Om’ chanting, and these effects were sustained after 4 weeks. Respiratory endurance, measured by the blast test, 40 mm Hg test, and breath-holding times, significantly improved after 4 weeks of chanting. Conclusion: ‘Om’ chanting demonstrated beneficial effects on heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory endurance in healthy adults. These findings suggest that regular practice of ‘Om’ chanting could be considered as a preventive or rehabilitative measure for individuals with hypertension, anxiety, or respiratory disorders. Further research is warranted to explore its underlying physiological mechanisms and potential clinical applications.