Comparative study of Influence of Yajna and Yogasana on stress level as Measured by Electron Photonic Imaging (EPI) Technique

Background: Vedic literature makes injunction of Yaja extensively as one of the Karmas to achieve the intended goal by performing a set of activities, maintaining synchrony with creation. Various Yajas have been explained for removal of diseases. Electro Photonic Imaging (EPI) technique, a specially designed instrument is used to measure human stress level based on the autonomic nervous system activity. The present study is designed to explore the influence of Yaja on normal healthy individuals stress level. Aim: To compare the influence of Yaja and Yogsana sessions on stress level using Activation coefficient as measured by EPI. Settings and Design: In a self as active control study, 18 participants underwent one hour yoga session on the first day and Yaja session on the next day. Data were taken before and after the session of the respective event. The subjects of study were participants of YIC (Yoga Instructor Course) from different places in India who have recently gone through one month of Yoga Instructor Course at Pranti Kuram. Methods and Material: In the study participants had one hour Yoga session and on the next day, they took part in Saraswati Yaja for one hour and ten minutes. On each day, EPI data were taken before and after the session of each event. These are the two interventions in the study. Statistical analysis used: SPSS-12.00 software was used for data analysis. Paired sample t-test was used for analysis. Results: Within group differences showed significant change observed in Activation coefficient (p& lt;.021) of EPI parameter in Yaja session indicating decreased stress level after Yaja session. Conclusions: Yaja brings about a larger decrease in stress level compared to Yogsana session. The effects of Yaja which were observed could be because of the use of medicinal plants and procedure involved in Yaja. So Yaja can be performed not only as a traditional practice but also as therapy for effective stress management.