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Volume 21, Issue 2 (Summer & Autumn- In Press 2024)
ASJ 2024, 21(2): 0-0 |
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Gorgich E A, Raoofi A, Rustamzadeh A. Salah (Islamic Prayer) as a Multimodal Mind–body Practice: Brain Connectivity, Mental Health, Sensorimotor Control, and Neuroplasticity. ASJ 2024; 21 (2)
URL: http://anatomyjournal.ir/article-1-650-en.html
URL: http://anatomyjournal.ir/article-1-650-en.html
1- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran
2- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
3- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran. & Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
2- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran
3- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran. & Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran.
Abstract: (7 Views)
Introduction: Neuroscientific research increasingly shows that contemplative practices affect brain function primarily through large-scale network dynamics rather than isolated regional changes. Despite its unique integration of embodied movement, rhythmic Qur'anic vocalization, sustained attention, and emotional–spiritual engagement, Islamic prayer (Salah/Namaaz) has received less attention than secular meditation. In the context of network neuroscience, predictive processing, and neuroplasticity, this review reframes Salah as a multimodal neurocognitive system.
Methods: This study was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2010–2026). Inclusion focused on human studies reporting neural, physiological, molecular, or behavioral effects of Salah or Qur'anic recitation via EEG/QEEG, MEG, or fMRI. Findings were synthesized qualitatively due to methodological heterogeneity.
Results: According to studies, Salah linked to enhanced alpha–theta power, reduced default-mode network activity, strengthened prefrontal–cingulo–insular recruitment, and parasympathetic dominance, supporting attentional regulation and stress reduction. Structural MRI showed corpus callosum neuroplasticity; endocrine data indicated normalized cortisol/alpha-amylase and modulated BDNF/IL-6 expression. Behavioral outcomes included improved emotional stability and mindfulness in psychiatric groups. Comparisons with VR meditation, motor imagery, and rhythmic stimulation revealed shared embodied cognition and plasticity mechanisms. Neurophenomenological analyses highlighted between-network integration as a contemplative expertise marker.
Conclusion: Islamic prayer emerges as a cohesive mind-body practice influencing networks, autonomic balance, and neuroplasticity at multiple levels. Future research using QEEG, MEG, high-field fMRI, tractography, and molecular profiling is needed to elucidate causal pathways and extend findings to cellular/epigenetic domains.
Methods: This study was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2010–2026). Inclusion focused on human studies reporting neural, physiological, molecular, or behavioral effects of Salah or Qur'anic recitation via EEG/QEEG, MEG, or fMRI. Findings were synthesized qualitatively due to methodological heterogeneity.
Results: According to studies, Salah linked to enhanced alpha–theta power, reduced default-mode network activity, strengthened prefrontal–cingulo–insular recruitment, and parasympathetic dominance, supporting attentional regulation and stress reduction. Structural MRI showed corpus callosum neuroplasticity; endocrine data indicated normalized cortisol/alpha-amylase and modulated BDNF/IL-6 expression. Behavioral outcomes included improved emotional stability and mindfulness in psychiatric groups. Comparisons with VR meditation, motor imagery, and rhythmic stimulation revealed shared embodied cognition and plasticity mechanisms. Neurophenomenological analyses highlighted between-network integration as a contemplative expertise marker.
Conclusion: Islamic prayer emerges as a cohesive mind-body practice influencing networks, autonomic balance, and neuroplasticity at multiple levels. Future research using QEEG, MEG, high-field fMRI, tractography, and molecular profiling is needed to elucidate causal pathways and extend findings to cellular/epigenetic domains.
Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
Neuroanatomy
Received: 2026/08/24 | Accepted: 2026/09/9 | Published: 2024/08/30
Received: 2026/08/24 | Accepted: 2026/09/9 | Published: 2024/08/30
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