Exploring the effect of Trataka on cognitive functions: A narrative review

A BSTRACT Trataka , an ancient yogic form of visual concentration consisting of unwavering gaze focused on a single spot or object and pursuing until tears, are elicited has roots deep in the classical Hatha Yoga. Trataka has traditionally been described as a practise of purification and spiritual development, and preliminary evidence substantiates that it could regulate cognition and consciousness states through unique neurophysiological pathways. The present narrative review analyses the available literature concerning Trataka and its role in memory, working spatial memory, attention, concentration, and global outcome cognition. Keywords including “ Trataka ” and “Cognitive function” were freely used for a systematic search in Scopus, Google scholar, and PubMed using PRISMA guidelines. Studies of experimental and clinical trials on Trataka or other yogic visual concentration practices were included in this review. Review items were limited to English language studies from 2010 to 2026. From 597 identified studies, 4 met the selection criteria and were incorporated into the research. Most of the selected studies gave compelling evidence of positive improvement in cognitive functioning related to attention, memory, learning, and executive perceiving processes. Both immediate and short-term protocols showed a positive effect, indicating its potential as an effective cognitive enhancement technique. Findings suggest that Trataka represents a promising nonpharmacological approach for optimizing cognition and related factors. However, variability in study design, small sample size, and limited reporting of absolute statistical measures were observed across studies. Further, well-designed studies with standardized protocols and objective neurocognitive are strictly required to validate these preliminary findings and establish definitive clinical efficacy.