Single session of yoga-based meditation technique on blood pressure and autonomic function among hypertensive individuals – A randomized controlled trial

A BSTRACT Introduction: Autonomic imbalance in hypertensive individuals contributes to metabolic, hemodynamic, and cardiovascular risks, primarily due to heightened sympathetic activity. Emotional stress management is crucial for blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular health. While regular yogic practices have demonstrated benefits, the immediate effects of mastering emotions technique (MEMT) on hemodynamic parameters and autonomic function remain unexplored. Methodology: In this randomized controlled trial, 134 hypertensive individuals aged 30–60 years were recruited from SDM society healthcare setups and allocated to either an intervention group (MEMT) or a control group (supine rest). Blood pressure parameters – including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure (PP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and rate pressure product (RPP) – and autonomic function assessed via heart rate variability (HRV) were measured at baseline and postintervention. Results: The intervention group demonstrated significant reductions ( p < 0.05) in hemodynamic variables (SBP, PP, MAP, MBP, MPAP, and RPP) and significant improvements ( p < 0.05) in HRV indices. Notable changes were observed in pRR50 ( p = 0.02), low-frequency power ( p < 0.01), and high-frequency power ( p = 0.02), indicating enhanced autonomic balance. Conclusion: A single session of MEMT significantly improved blood pressure indices and restored sympathovagal balance in hypertensive individuals. These findings suggest its potential role in mitigating cardiovascular risk and warrant further investigation in long-term studies.