EFFECTS OF YOGIC ASANAS, PRANAYAM & RELAXATION TECHNIQUES ON VENTILATORY FUNCTIONS, RESPIRATORY PRESSURES, BREATH HOLDING TIME AND RESPIRATORY ENDURANCE

Abstract

Background: The study about effects of regular practice of yoga on ventilatory functions is very important to better understand it's effect on health. Method: 100 healthy volunteers (M78:F22) from age group (17- 26) years were included in the study. They practiced some yogic exercises including Asanas, Pranayam & relaxation techniques daily one hour for 3 months. Pulmonary function tests FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR, FEF25%-75%, RR, TV, MV, MBC or MVV, BR, DI were recorded at start & end of the study. Apart from this maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), breath holding time (BHT) & 40mmHg respiratory endurance test were also recorded. Result: Yoga training for 3 months resulted in improved ventilatory functions in the form of increases in the FVC, FEV1, MVV, BR, DI, maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), 40 mm Hg respiratory endurance test and prolongation of breath holding time (BHT). Conclusion: 3 months training produces a signicant improvement in respiratory pressures (MIP, MEP) and spirometric values