Effects of Trimūrti Dhyāna on Heart Rate Variability and Three Guṇas: A Pilot Study Based on Dhyānabindu Upaniṣad

This pilot study investigates the psychophysiological effects of Trimūrti Dhyāna, a visualization- based meditative practice described in the Dhyānabindu Upaniṣad, on heart rate variability (HRV) and the modulation of the three Guṇas—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Thirty healthy male students were randomly assigned to either a meditation group (N = 15) practicing Trimūrti Dhyāna for six weeks or a control group (N = 15). Pre- and post-intervention assessments included HRV parameters and psychological profiling using the Vedic Personality Inventory. The Dhyāna group showed a significant increase in Sattva and a reduction in Rajas and Tamas scores. While most HRV changes were not statistically significant, favorable trends were observed, and LF power showed a significant decrease. These preliminary results suggest that Trimūrti Dhyāna may enhance psychological balance and autonomic regulation, warranting further large-scale investigation.