Effect of selected breathing techniques on respiratory rate and breath holding time in healthy adults.

ABSTRACT

Background and Objective: Rapid industrialization, environmental pollution and overcrowding gradually deteriorate the ventilatory ability or functions of human beings. This requires special and specific breathing techniques to transcend the limits of our physical and mental abilities experienced in everyday life. Hence, in the present study, the beneficial effect of pranayama with reference to respiratory rate and breath holding time was studied. Materials and methods: This study was conducted in the department of Physiology, Seth G.S. Medical College and K.E.M. Hospital, Mumbai after the institutional ethical clearance and written consent from each participant. The participants were divided into control and study groups with 45 members each of both the sexes at the age group of 20±2 years. The study group was asked to perform Kapalbhati, Anulom Vilom, Bhramari and Udgeeth pranayama. The duration of the study was eight weeks. The respiratory rate and breath holding time in both the groups were recorded and analysed for statistical significance using students ‘t’ test and p<0.05 was considered the level of significance. Result: In study group, the respiratory rate was decreased significantltly (p=0.000) whereas the breath holding time was increased significantly (p=0.000) when compared to that of control group. Discussion and Conclusion: Pranayama increases the overall capacity of lungs and gradually improves the ventilatory functioning of lungs. Due to proper working of these organs, vital energy flows to maintain the normal homeostasis of the body and thus it helps for prevention, control and rehabilitation of many respiratory diseases.