The Science Behind Om Chanting with Dr. Hemant Bhargav, Chief Scientist at NIMHANS
Ever wonder happens in your brain when you're chanting OM?
Watch the video below! Chief Scientist for India's National Institute of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Dr. Hemant Bhargav, explores the fascinating intersection of ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience in his research on the effects of chanting Aum.
“What we observed was that when the subjects chanted Aum, there was a deactivation of the limbic system of the brain, particularly in the amygdala. We know that the amygdala is the primal area of the brain, which is associated with emotions like fear and the amplification of negative feelings.”
A medical doctor with a Ph.D. in yoga, Dr. Bhargav's work seeks to unite eastern and western scientific paradigms. His recent studies offer a deeper understanding of the nervous system’s response to sound healing yoga therapy chanting and reveal a glimpse into the future of holistic health.
Anandra had the great privilege to visit Dr. Bhargav at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bangalore, India when he was Chief Scientist in 2019! The interview video below was for our Mantras for Peace: A Wisdom Gathering project.*
The Science Behind Chanting Aum
In a groundbreaking study conducted at NIMHANS, Dr. Bhargav and his team used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe the effects of chanting Aum on the brain. Their findings revealed a significant deactivation in the limbic system, particularly the amygdala—the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions such as fear and aggression.
Dr. Bhargav explains, "The amygdala is often linked to primal instincts, including negative emotions. When subjects chanted Aum, the blood flow to the amygdala decreased, suggesting a calming effect on this brain region. This indicates that chanting Aum has the potential to reduce stress and anxiety by soothing areas of the brain that trigger negative emotions."
Chanting as an Alternative Therapy
Dr. Bhargav's research goes beyond simply understanding how chanting Aum impacts the brain. He is also exploring alternative sounds for individuals who may not chant Auṁ due to socio-cultural reasons. His hypothesis is that the vibratory component of the sound is key to its effects on the brain, particularly through the stimulation of the vagus nerve, which is connected to deep brain areas.
"We are currently comparing the effects of chanting Aum to humming and other vibratory sounds," Dr. Bhargav shares. "This research could provide alternatives for individuals, offering similar mental health benefits through different sounds."
Mind Sound Resonance Technique (MSRT) for Anxiety
In addition to his work on Aum, Dr. Bhargav has researched the effects of the Mind Sound Resonance Technique (MSRT) on individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This technique, which involves chanting in a group setting, has shown promising results in reducing anxiety levels and improving cognitive performance.
"Group mantra chanting seems to amplify the effects," Dr. Bhargav notes. "The vibrations created when chanting in unison appear to resonate more deeply in the body, enhancing the overall calming effect."
The Future of Integrative Medicine
Dr. Bhargav believes that the future of healthcare lies in integrative medicine, combining modern science with ancient practices such as yoga, Ayurveda, and other traditional healing systems. "Chronic lifestyle disorders require a holistic approach," he explains. "Integrative medicine offers a path forward by promoting prevention and wellness, not just treating disease."
Dr. Bhargav's research highlights the growing importance of integrating ancient wisdom with modern science to improve mental and physical health.
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Mantras for Peace: A Wisdom Gathering Online
Many of the world’s indigenous wisdom cultures acknowledge that the unseen sound of prayers keep the delicate fabric of life in harmony.
Learn about ancient and innovative subtle activism practices from thought leaders, teachers, and artists from 6 continents in Mantras for Peace: A Wisdom Gathering Online
👂🏽 From labels to listening
🤝 From divisiveness to deescalation
🤗 From extremism to empathy
💞 From disassociation to deep connection
Featuring radically inspiring and thought-provoking conversations with global thought leaders dedicated to a vibrant future through ancient and innovative subtle activism practices, Mantras for Peace: Wisdom Gathering is an all-volunteer project dedicated to empowering people with peacemaking skills. (Originally aired 2019 & 2021)
Hosted by Anandra George, a pioneer in the transformational personal practice of sound and mantra and founder of the Heart of Sound.
45 profound, provocative, inspiring conversations with a diverse panel of global thought leaders.
Together, let's explore ancient and innovative subtle activism practices for a vibrant future!
Featuring radically inspiring and thought-provoking conversations with
- Neuroscience Educator Dr. Sarah Peyton
- Trauma Informed NVC Facilitator Meenadchi
- Biologist Bruce Lipton, Arhuaco
- Medicine Keeper Biskungwi Marquez
- Futurist Christine Mason
- Sanskrit Scholar Dr. Katy Jane
- Tantra Expert Devi Ward Erickson
- Marketing Queen Mari Smith
- Devotional Musician Punnu Singh Wasu
- Voice Expert Chloe Goodchild
- Yoga Philosophy Teacher Bhavani Maki
- Artist Activist Zena El Khalil
- Sound Medicine Expert Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary
- Peace Activist Michelle Button
- Mantra Researcher Gemma Perry
- Musician Gina Salā
- Wellness Entrepreneur Ayana Dake
- Devotional Singer Radhamadhav Das
- Non-Violent Communication Trainer Jori Manske
- Yoga Misfit Dana Trixie Flynn
- Musician Sheela Bringi and More...
