Shambhavi Mudra Improves Selective Attention in Young Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Shambhavi Mudra (SM), often known as Bhrumadya Drishti or eyebrow center gazing, is one of the various yoga practices. The right frontoparietal cortex controls an important function called selective attention (SA). The cancellation task demands both visual selection and repetitive and coordinated motor responses. The six-letter cancellation task (SLCT) is useful for testing functions like SA, visual scanning, inhibition and activation of quick reactions, and focused attention. Assessing SA in young adults is quite beneficial in evaluating their academic performance and achievement.

Objective: To assess the immediate and later effects of SM on SA in young adults using SLCT.

Subjects and Methods: Thirty young adults of both sexes with an average age of 18.9 ± 1 years volunteered for the study. The SLCT data were taken before (pre), immediately after the first intervention session (1st post), and after the third day intervention (2nd post) of SM.

Results: The Student's t-test, performed with STATA 12.0 (College Station, Texas, USA), revealed a substantial rise in SA scores following the SM practice. P < 0.001 indicated that the pre and immediate post-values within the group were statistically significant. The group's pre and post (follow-up outcome) values are also statistically significant at P < 0.001. The magnitude of change, however, was greater in the later post-assessment than in the pre-assessment and immediate post-assessment. It is found that SM practice can raise SA and thus improve academic performance and achievement.

Conclusion: The current study reveals that SM practice may improve SA in young adults and consequently benefit their academic performance. A well-designed study is required before a firm judgment on the efficacy of SM for improving SA.