Effects of an Eight-Week Trataka Practice on Attention Performance Among University Students: A Controlled Pre–Post Experimental Study
Roopa Sharma(ORCID), Garima Jaiswal, Umesh Kumar(ORCID)
- Pages
- pp. 28-40
- Published
- September 8, 2026
Roopa Sharma, Garima Jaiswal & Umesh Kumar (2026). Effects of an Eight-Week Trataka Practice on Attention Performance Among University Students: A Controlled Pre–Post Experimental Study. Chirantan, 1(1), 28-40.
Article history
- Received:
- August 24, 2026
- Accepted:
- September 4, 2026
- Published:
- September 8, 2026
Abstract
Attention is a fundamental cognitive function that enables humans to selectively process relevant information while inhibiting distractors. The growing academic burden, digital multitasking, and psychological stress among university students have adversely impacted their attention span and overall cognitive performance. This study investigates the effect of a structured focused attention training module on cognitive alertness among university students. A sample of 40 students was recruited and randomly divided into an experimental group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). Pre- and post-test attention scores were recorded using a standardized attention assessment tool. As reported in the original dissertation, the mean pre-test score was 36.55 ± 9.08, which significantly improved to 23.36 ± 6.86 following the intervention, indicating enhanced alertness (p < 0.05). The results support the hypothesis that attention training practices rooted in traditional meditative techniques such as Trataka, breath awareness, and sensory withdrawal can significantly improve cognitive performance. The findings have strong implications for integrating cognitive training modules into academic settings to counter mental fatigue and improve student productivity.
Keywords:Tratakacognitive functionStudentsAttentionyoga
About the authors
Roopa Sharma. Roopa Sharma is a Research Scholar at the Amity Institute of Indian System of Medicine, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Her academic and research interests focus on Yoga, traditional yogic practices, and their application in promoting cognitive and psychological well-being. Her research explores the effects of Trataka and focused attention practices on cognitive alertness and attention among university students. Through her work, she aims to contribute to the scientific understanding of traditional Indian knowledge systems and their relevance in contemporary health and education. Her research interests include yoga-based interventions, cognitive performance, attention, mental well-being, and evidence-based approaches to integrating traditional practices with modern scientific research
Garima Jaiswal. Dr. Garima Jaiswal is currently working as Assistant Professor, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
Umesh Kumar. Dr. Umesh Kumar works as Assistant Professor, Amity Institute of Indian System of Medicine, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India



