Effect of yoga on peak expiratory flow rate

Abstract

Background: The 21st century has witnessed a landmark of science and technology. Due to this advanced scientific-technological invention, the body movements of human beings have been restricted. Man has been felt the prey of stress, hypokinetic, and psychosomatic diseases. Every one desires good health and it is the ultimate objective of all those who want happiness in life. Hence, man should not ignore the importance of any physical activities. Yoga strengthens the respiratory musculature due to which chest and lungs inflate and deflate to fullest possible extent, and muscles are made to work to the maximal extent. Yoga includes many specific postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama). Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is one of the lung function tests. Hence, the present study is undertaken to know the effect of pranayama on PEFR. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to compare of PEFR values between pranayama practitioner and sedentary lifestyle individual. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Bidar Institute of Medical Sciences, Bidar, Karnataka. The study comprises healthy subjects of both sexes in the age group of 20–40 years. The subjects will be divided into two groups. Group A consisting of 30 healthy subjects, selected randomly from a group of regular yoga practitioners practicing pranayama for 20–30 min a day, 6 days/week, for a minimum period of 5 years. Group B consists of 30 sedentary lifestyle individuals. PEFR is assessed among both groups using computerized spirometer RMS Helios 702. Statistics was done using independent Student’s t-test. Results: The study showed a significant increase in PEFR values in yoga practitioners compared to sedentary individuals. Conclusion: Regular performance of yoga helps in improving respiratory muscle strength and enhances the pulmonary functions.