Study the Disaster Readiness among the Rajyoga Meditation Practitioners at Frequently Flood Affected Areas

Summary

Rajyoga meditation practitioners in flood-prone areas showed higher emotional regulation, situational awareness, and community engagement during flood events. Their spiritual practices, such as meditation and positive thinking, helped reduce anxiety and improve decision-making. Participants reported that values from Rajyoga, like inner peace and altruism, enabled them to stay calm and proactive in crises. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating psychological and spiritual factors into disaster preparedness to enhance community resilience.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Natural disasters, particularly floods, pose persistent threats to life, property, and psychosocial well-being in vulnerable regions. Disaster readiness, which includes preparedness, response capacity, and adaptive resilience, is critical for reducing the adverse impacts of such events. While numerous studies have explored the physical and infrastructural dimensions of disaster readiness, relatively little attention has been given to the psychological and spiritual factors that may enhance individuals’ preparedness and coping mechanisms. This study investigates the level of disaster readiness among practitioners of Rajyoga Meditation living in frequently flood-affected areas. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, data were collected from a purposive sample of Rajyoga meditation practitioners residing in flood-prone districts. Standardized disaster readiness assessment tools were employed alongside a structured questionnaire measuring psychological resilience, perceived stress, and spiritual coping. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically analyzed to capture subjective experiences. Findings suggest that Rajyoga practitioners demonstrated comparatively higher levels of emotional regulation, situational awareness, and community engagement during flood warnings and actual flood events. Their spiritual practices, including regular meditation, positive thinking, and collective service, appeared to contribute to reduced anxiety, improved decision-making, and enhanced social support networks. Furthermore, participants reported that the values inculcated through Rajyoga—such as inner peace, detachment, and altruism—helped them remain calm and proactive under crisis conditions. This study highlights the potential role of spiritual and meditative practices in strengthening disaster readiness at the individual and community levels. Integrating such psychosocial dimensions into disaster preparedness programs may enhance resilience among populations frequently exposed to floods. The findings underscore the importance of holistic approaches that combine infrastructural preparedness with psychological and spiritual strengthening to build more disaster-ready communities.

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