What’s This Research About?
This paper presents a bibliometric review of 20 years of research at the intersection of yoga and psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)—a field that explores how psychological processes (like stress), the nervous system, and immune function interact. Using a database of 2,151 scientific articles published between 2003 and 2023, the authors analyzed global trends, themes, and collaboration patterns.
The aim was to map the development, trends, and key areas of scientific research connecting yoga and PNI over two decades using bibliometric tools. This helps understand the evolution of the field and guide future research and funding. The authors appear to advocate for India to take a more prominent role in this kind of research, urging Indian institutions and funders to invest more actively in this area, given the country’s historical and cultural ties to yoga.
Summary of purpose of this paper:
- Chart the growth and transformation of yoga–PNI research from 2003 to 2023.
- Identify influential authors, institutions, and countries.
- Examine common themes and shifts in research focus over time.
- Suggest areas for future investigation and collaboration.
TITLE: Mapping the Mind-Body Connections: A Two-decade Bibliometric Exploration of Yoga and Psychoneuroimmunology
PUBLICATION: Annals of Neurosciences Online First
DATE: June 2025
AUTHORS: Haritha Dhanasekar, Damal Chandrasekar Mathangi
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI): PNI is the study of how thoughts and emotions (psycho), the nervous system (neuro), and the immune system (immunology) interact. For example, chronic stress can dysregulate immune function, while mind-body interventions like yoga may help regulate these systems.
PNI has gained popularity in recent years because it offers a compelling, science-based explanation for how our mental and emotional states can directly affect physical health. As stress-related illnesses and chronic inflammatory conditions have become more common, researchers and clinicians have increasingly turned to PNI to explore how mind-body practices like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness might support overall health—not just mental, but also immune and neurological.
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