Abstract

This study examines the impact of Sahaja Yoga Meditation (SYM) on freedom in relation to gender, positioning it within the broader framework of sustainable development. Yoga and meditation arerecognized and known for their significant benefits in enhancing cognitive function, emotional stability, and overall health. Among various meditative practices, SYM uniquely fosters a state of thoughtless awareness, facilitating self-regulation and emotional resilience. This research employs a 2 x 2 factorial design, including 400 subjects from Chhattisgarh State, stratified by gender and meditation practice. Freedom was assessed using the Sustainable Development Survey Scale (SDSS). The results reveal that SYM practitioners exhibit significantly higher freedom scores than non-practitioners, indicating the transformative role of meditation in fostering autonomy and self-expression. Statistically Significant gender differences were also observed, with female participants reporting greater levels of perceived freedom compared to their male counterparts. However, related to interaction between gender and meditation practice was not found statistically significant, suggesting that the benefits of SYM in enhancing freedom are universally experienced across genders. The findings underscore the neurocognitive and psychological mechanisms through which SYM influences self-awareness and emotional regulation. Additionally, the study highlights the relevance of SYM in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting mental well-being and gender equality. These results significantly contribute to the growing body of literature advocating for the integration of the practice of meditation into mental health and sustainable development policies. Future research should explore the long-term implications of SYM on freedom, incorporating diverse cultural and demographic variables to further elucidate its transformative potential.