Effect of rosary prayer and yoga mantras on autonomic cardiovascular rhythms: comparative study. Issue 7327 (22nd December 2001)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bernardi, Luciano; Sleight, Peter; Bandinelli, Gabriele; Cencetti, Simone; Fattorini, Lamberto; Wdowczyc-Szulc, Johanna; Lagi, Alfonso
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 323:Issue 7327(2001)
• Page Start: 1446
• Page End: 1449
• Publication Date: 2001-12-22
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.323.7327.1446
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To test whether rhythmic formulas such as the rosary and yoga mantras can synchronise and reinforce inherent cardiovascular rhythms and modify baroreflex sensitivity. Design: Comparison of effects of recitation of the Ave Maria (in Latin) or of a mantra, during spontaneous and metronome controlled breathing, on breathing rate and on spontaneous oscillations in RR interval, and on blood pressure and cerebral circulation. Setting: Florence and Pavia, Italy. Participants: 23 healthy adults. Main outcome measures: Breathing rate, regularity of breathing, baroreflex sensitivity, frequency of cardiovascular oscillations. Results: Both prayer and mantra caused striking, powerful, and synchronous increases in existing cardiovascular rhythms when recited six times a minute. Baroreflex sensitivity also increased significantly, from 9.5 (SD 4.6) to 11.5 (4.9) ms/mm Hg, P<0.05. Conclusion: Rhythm formulas that involve breathing at six breaths per minute induce favourable psychological and possibly physiological effects.