Effects of Jyoti Trataka Practice on Reaction Time and Visual Perception in Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Background: Reaction time (RT) and visual perception are pivotal for neurocognitive functioning in young adults, underpinning academic and daily performance. Interventions targeting these faculties, particularly yogic visual concentration practices such as Jyoti Trataka , remain underexplored. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects o f Jyoti Trataka practice on RT and visual perceptual accuracy, measured as susceptibility to optical illusion, in young adults. Materials and Methods: In this parallel-group randomized controlled trial, 120 healthy young adults (mean age: 20.40 ± 1.81 years) were randomized to a Trataka group (TG, n = 60, 8-week Jyoti Trataka intervention, 20 min/day, 6 days/week) or control group (CG, n = 60, no intervention). Assessments at baseline and after 8 weeks included RT (go response [GR], correct, incorrect, and early responses) using the Multi-Operational Apparatus for Reaction Time and visual perception (degree of optical illusion, In-Trials and Out-Trials) with the Müller–Lyer Apparatus. Data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc tests. Results: The TG showed significant reductions in GR RT ( F [1,118] =12.55, P = 0.001, ƞ 2 = 0.096) and in the degree of optical illusion in both In-Trials ( F [1,118] =9.174, P = 0.003, ƞ 2 = 0.072) and Out-Trials ( F [1,118] =14.98, P < 0.001, ƞ 2 = 0.113), with significant interaction effects between sessions and states ( P < 0.001). No comparable improvements occurred in the CG. Conclusions: Jyoti Trataka practice over 8 weeks improves neurocognitive speed and reduces perceptual distortions in healthy young adults. Integrating Trataka into cognitive enhancement strategies may support academic performance and visual health.