Effects of Trimūrti Dhyāna on Heart Rate Variability and Three Gunas: A Pilot Study Based on Dhyānabindu Upanisad

This pilot study investigates the psychophysiological effects of Trimūrti Dhyāna, a visualization-based meditative practice described in the Dhyānabindu Upaniṣad, on Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and the modulation of the three Guṇas – Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas. Thirty healthy male students were randomly assigned to either a meditation group (N = 15) practicing Trimūrti Dhyāna for six weeks or a control group (N = 15). Pre-and post-intervention assessments included HRV parameters and psychological profiling using the Vedic Personality Inventory. The Dhyāna group showed a significant increase in Sattva and a reduction in Rajas and Tamas scores. While most HRV changes were not statistically significant, favorable trends were observed, and LF power showed a significant decrease. These preliminary results suggest that Trimūrti Dhyāna may enhance psychological balance and autonomic regulation, warranting further large-scale investigation.