Young Minds Reimagining Rajyoga Meditation: Physiological Impact of Flute Music during Amrutvela on HRV and EEG

Abstract Meditation is increasingly recognized as a significant intervention for mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Rajyoga meditation, a form of thought-based meditation rooted in Indian spiritual traditions, emphasizes self-realization and union with the Supreme. Practicing Rajyoga during Amrutvela (the pre-dawn hours, 4–5 a.m.) has been historically associated with clarity, focus, and inner peace. This study explores the physiological impact of combining flute music with Rajyoga meditation during Amrutvela among youth (18–30 years). Yoga is a science that has been developed by India's ancient seers, not only for India, but for mankind as a whole. This is a precise science. It is a great, practical self-cultivation method – Swami Sivananda. The name 'Yoga' derives from the Sanskrit root Yuj, which translates as a union of Atma and Paramatma. In Sanskrit, practitioners of Yoga are referred to as Yogin and Yogini (feminine); but, in Western practice, the genderless name 'Yogi' has been used. Yoga was developed in Northern India by the Indus-Sarasvati civilisation and first appears in writing approximately 5000 years ago in the Rig Veda — the first holy books including hymns, mantras, and rituals for use by Vedic priests, or Brahmans. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Electroencephalography (EEG) were recorded before and after meditation sessions with and without flute accompaniment. The results indicated that when Rajyoga Meditation was practiced with flute music in the background, participants demonstrated more pronounced improvements in HRV indicators such as RMSSD and HF power. In addition, EEG analysis revealed an increase in alpha and theta activity, suggesting deeper relaxation than mediation performed without music. These findings illustrate how youth are reimagining ancient traditions through modern scientific tools, demonstrating the global potential of Indian practices in stress reduction, focus enhancement, and sustainable health models.