Immediate Effect of Pranayama on Pulmonary Function in Healthy Adults: An Experimental Study

Yoga, a holistic mind-body practice, has gained recognition for its potential health benefits, including improvements in pulmonary function. However, limited research has focused on the immediate effects of a single yoga session on pulmonary parameters. This study aims to investigate the immediate impact of a 60-minute yoga session on pulmonary function in healthy adults.

A total of 20 healthy adults from Amity University participated in a single-group pretest-posttest design study. Participants, with a mean age of 19.58±1.45 years, engaged in a 60-minute yoga session focused on pranayama techniques. Pulmonary function assessments, including Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR), were conducted using a spirometer before and immediately after the yoga session. Paired t-tests were employed to compare pretest and posttest values of pulmonary function parameters.

The analysis revealed a significant increase in all three pulmonary function parameters following the yoga session. Mean FVC increased from 2.77 ± 1.62 L to 3.46 ± 2.18 L (P = .004), FEV1 from 1.82 ± 1.09 L to 2.31 ± 1.35 L (P = .007), and PEFR increased from 2.33 ± 1.45 L to 3.62 ± 2.58 L (P = .013). These findings indicate an immediate positive effect of yoga on pulmonary function.

The observed improvements in pulmonary function parameters suggest that a single 60-minute yoga session can have immediate beneficial effects on respiratory health in healthy adults. Integrating yoga into daily routines may offer a simple yet effective approach to promote respiratory health. Further research should explore the long-term effects of yoga on pulmonary function and its efficacy as an adjunct therapy for respiratory disorders.

yoga, Pranayama, spirometer, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function.