Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2025)

Meditation and Its Impact on Neuroendocrine Health

Author(s):

Yadala Mohanraj Dey

Abstract:

The neuroendocrine system acts as the biochemical interface between the brain and the body, regulating stress, mood, energy metabolism, immune responses, and overall physiological homeostasis. Chronic stress and modern lifestyle factors have disrupted neuroendocrine balance, leading to metabolic, emotional, and cardiovascular disorders. Meditation—an ancient mind-body discipline—has gained recognition as a non-pharmacological tool capable of restoring neuroendocrine harmony through psychophysiological regulation. This paper examines how different meditation practices modulate neuroendocrine axes, focusing on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, and sympatho-adrenal-medullary (SAM) system. Drawing on neuroscientific and endocrinological research, it elucidates how mindfulness, transcendental meditation, yoga-based meditation, and compassion meditation improve hormonal profiles—reducing cortisol, enhancing melatonin, balancing serotonin and dopamine, and optimizing oxytocin release. The paper integrates clinical evidence, mechanistic insights, and traditional perspectives, offering a holistic view of meditation as a neuroendocrine modulator.

Pages: 43-51  |  67 Views  24 Downloads

How to cite this article:
Yadala Mohanraj Dey. Meditation and Its Impact on Neuroendocrine Health. J. Swasthavritta Yoga 2025;2(2):43-51. DOI: 10.33545/30787157.2025.v2.i2.A.24