Abstract
The global impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is tremendous on human life, not only affecting the physical and mental health of population but also impacting the economic system of countries and individual itself. The present situation demands prompt response toward COVID-19 by equipping the humans with strategies to overcome the infection and stress associated with it. These strategies must not only be limited to preventive and therapeutic measures, but also aim at improving immunity and mental health. This can be achieved by yogic breathing techniques. In this perspective, we emphasize the importance of yogic breathing, Simha Kriya and Isha kriya, the simple yet effective breathing techniques.
Highlights
Traditional yogic systems that involve breathing exercises (Pranayama), yoga postures (Asanas), chants and meditation have been known to reduce physical and mental stress, enhance lung functions, and immunity (Hakked et al, 2017)
A doctor from United Kingdom suggested simple breathing technique, which is popular online, for getting relief from COVID-19 by encouraging gaseous exchange and oxygenation; this technique does not prevent or cure COVID-19 (Hamzelou, 2020). As it is often argued among Yoga scholars that Isha kriya and Simha kriya may be useful for COVID-19 patients, a randomized pilot study is imperative to study the role of Isha kriya and Simha kriya with the biological/physiological therapeutic efficacy
It is important to note that the key factors to control COVID-19 are prevention of the contagion, by following standard norms such as use of N-95 or regular masks, handwashing, use of sanitizers and social distancing
Summary
Traditional yogic systems that involve breathing exercises (Pranayama), yoga postures (Asanas), chants and meditation have been known to reduce physical and mental stress, enhance lung functions, and immunity (Hakked et al, 2017). It is notable that practicing Yoga, especially breathing techniques, may be beneficial to control anxiety, stress and to some extent modulate immune response. Validating such technique in a clinical set up is obligatory. Astra Zeneca/Oxford COVID-19 under the local name of Covishield and Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech, India are being administered in India Precautionary measures such as N-95 or regular masks, hand-washing, use of sanitizers and social distancing can be effectively supplemented with vaccination and immune enhancing measures such as a good diet, physical exercises, yogic breathing exercises, and meditative techniques including mindfulness. In this article we have discussed the psychological and physiological improvements achieved by practicing Yoga, including Pranayama, or meditation or both and tried to emphasize its role in COVID-19 management
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