NLP & Japa - A Scientific Perspective

 

 

Neuro Linguistic Programming is a neuroscientific technique where affirmations are used repeatedly to rewire the brain. With the emergence of neuroplasticity, it was found that repetition creates new neuropaths in the brain. Studies have discovered that repetitive activities cultivate new habits and change emotional set up also. NLP believes that language plays an important role in the field of neuroplasticity. Words and self affirmations impact our beliefs and mindset. Positive language affects our emotions and behavior in a positive way. Anchoring is an important ingredient of NLP. It involves associating a physical act or emotional mindset to a certain stimulus normally a word or a gesture.

 

In the need of the hour, this anchoring is practised. This process establishes neurological connections. Visualisation and language connectivity are widely used in NLP. Prolonged practice of these techniques alters states of consciousness. It has been found that neurolinguistic training changes the core belief system also. NLP is a psychological technique discovered in the modern time. Japa, the chanting of holy names and sounds has been in practice over centuries in almost all the religions of the world. However, Indian traditions have developed a very elaborate science of Japa. It is of four types; Vaikhari - It is the primary stage of Japa. It involves loud chanting audible to others also. Upanshu - The tongue moves slowly and it is not audible outside. Manasika - It is a mental practice. Even the tongue does not move. Ajapa - It is the most advanced state of Japa.

 

It is autonomous and spontaneous. No effort is made to utter the sound or the holy names. Many spiritual practitioners align their breath with the chanting of holy names or the sounds. Like NLP Japa is also grounded in repetition. It involves the chanting of a name or sound with devotion and intention. It has been found in studies that the chanting of holy names or sounds creates new circuits in the brain. The brain becomes more focused and relaxed. Holy names are considered sacred sounds. The words are chosen with great care and their import is also very positive. Their constant chanting creates great vibrations in the brain and activates the areas of the brain associated with emotional stability and memory. Chanting leads to emotional regulation also. MRI studies of those who have been chanting Mantras over a long period of time suggested that their prefrontal cortex was activated.

 

The prefrontal cortex is the seat of intellect, reasoning and clear thinking. Prolonged chanting becomes an anchor also to the devotees. Remembering the holy names and sounds has been found to have a soothing impact on the nervous system. EEG experiments have found that the repetitive chanting of holy names or sounds generates Alpha and Theta brainwaves. Mantra meditation has been found to have enhanced emotional coherence. Numerous neuroscientific experiments have been conducted in the field of Mantra meditation and all have suggested positive impact on the brain. Though NLP is a modern psychological technique and Japa an ancient spiritual practice, both converge on numerous parallels leading to the same impact on the brain.