Abstract

NEURO-PHYSIOLOGICAL MODULATION OF OXIDATIVE STRESS AND INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES THROUGH SIMPLIFIED KUNDALINI YOGA (SKY) IN HEALTHCARE TRAINEES: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

K. Partheeban*, Dr. S. Shanthi, Dr. Vanitha

ABSTRACT

Background: Healthcare students face high-intensity academic stress, which activates the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal (HPA) axis and leads to a pro-inflammatory state characterized by elevated oxidative stress biomarkers. Objective: This narrative review evaluates the impact of Simplified Kundalini Yoga (SKY) on the systemic inflammatory profile, with specific focus on Interleukins (IL-6, IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), C-reactive protein (CRP), and Secretory Immunoglobulin A (sIgA). Methods: A synthesis of existing literature on Vethathirian yogic principles and contemporary clinical trials was conducted. The review maps the neurophysiological transition from high-frequency Beta brainwave states to low-frequency Alpha/Theta states during SKY practice. Results: SKY interventions, comprising simplified physical exercises, Kaya Kalpa, and endocrine-specific meditations targeting the pituitary (Aagna) and pineal (Thuriya) glands, are associated with downregulation of pro-inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, CRP) and upregulation of mucosal immunity (sIgA). Conclusion: SKY offers a viable non-pharmacological adjuvant for mitigating the biological sequelae of chronic academic stress in medical education. Longitudinal studies with standardized dosage protocols are warranted.

Keywords: Simplified Kundalini Yoga, oxidative stress, cytokines, neuro-immunomodulation, healthcare students, mind-body intervention.