Role of fast breathing exercises in modulation of pulmonary functions

Background & Objectives: With increased awareness and interest in health and natural remedies, breathing techniques are gaining importance and becoming increasingly acceptable to the scientific community Breathing is the most vital function for maintenance of life. Pranayama is an art of controlling the life force of breath. It produces many systemic psycho-physical effects in the body, besides its specific effects on the respiratory functions. Pranayama helps to bring the conscious awareness in breathing to reshape breathing habits and patterns. Thus the present study was conducted to elucidate the effect of bhastrika pranayama, a fast breathing type of exercise, on various pulmonary functions. Methods: The study included thirty medical students both male and female of age group 17-21 years. Students practiced bhastrika pranayama twenty five minutes daily for three months. Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) are measured before, at 6 weeks and 12 week after pranayama practice. Parameters included in the study were Vital Capacity (VC), Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) and Maximum Voluntary Ventilation (MVV). Results: There occurs a significant increase (p value <.01) in all the parameters included in the study following practice of bhastrika pranayama for three months. Interpretation & Conclusion: Bhastrika pranayama plays a significant role in improving the various ventilatory functions of lungs in pranayama practicing subjects. Thus helps in improving the quality of life.