Effect of slow and fast pranayams on reaction time and cardiorespiratory variables

We planned to undertake a comparative study of the effect of short term (three weeks) training in savitri (slow breathing) and bhastrika (fast breathing) pranayams on respiratory pressures and endurance, reaction time, blood pressure, heart rate, rate-pressure product and double product. Thirty student volunteers were divided into two groups of fifteen each. Group I was given training in savitri pranayam that involves slow, rhythmic, and deep breathing. Group II was given training in bhastrika pranayam, which is bellows-type rapid and deep breathing. Parameters were measured before and after three week training period. Savitri pranayam produced a significant increase in respiratory pressures and respiratory endurance. In both the groups, there was an appreciable but statistically insignificant shortening of reaction time. Heart rate, rate-pressure product and double product decreased in savitri pranayam group but increased significantly in bhastrika group. It is concluded that different types of pranayams produce different physiological responses in normal young volunteers.