New Delhi, Dec 21 (NationPress) Emphasizing the blend of ancient Yogic principles and contemporary medical insights in combating stress, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) hosted meditation sessions to commemorate World Meditation Day on Sunday.

The events, organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Ayush, gathered respected scholars, yoga practitioners, and enthusiasts alike.

In his address, Prof. (Dr) Kashinath Samagandi, Director of MDNIY, pointed out the clinical importance of meditation in the fast-paced modern world, according to an official statement.

He mentioned that approximately 60-70 percent of stress originates from workplace environments and emphasized the necessity of harmonizing body and mind through techniques outlined in the Patanjala Yogasutra.

Discussing recent research, he indicated that neuroimaging studies reveal that chanting 'Om' diminishes activity in the amygdala, the brain's center for fear and negative emotions, while activating the prefrontal cortex, responsible for regulating emotional responses.

A study has shown a notable reduction in amygdala activity during loud Om chanting compared to a resting state.

He also referred to findings from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, which suggest that Yoga Nidra leads to significant changes in brain activity linked to deep relaxation and emotional management, thus alleviating stress and systemic inflammation.

Swami Muktimayananda from the Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi, representing the spiritual heritage of meditation, urged participants to look inward for enduring peace.

He underscored that achieving mental calm begins with self-awareness and recognizing one’s true essence — Sat Chit Anand Swaroop — rooted in love and compassion.

He also highlighted the importance of following Yama and Niyama to transcend ego, jealousy, and unfulfilled desires that disrupt inner peace.

The program included practical demonstrations of various meditation techniques, designed to equip participants with valuable tools for enhancing mental and emotional resilience.

The gathering concluded with a unified commitment to integrate meditation into daily routines to advance the vision of a “Healthy Mind, Healthy India.”

It is noteworthy that the United Nations General Assembly designated December 21 as World Meditation Day last year, reaffirming the right of every individual to attain optimal physical and mental health.

This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Ayush’s ongoing mission to merge traditional Indian wisdom with modern lifestyle practices for a healthier society.