It’s an ancient practice.
Dr. Ajit Singh and colleagues recently conducted a study shedding light on the potential benefits of integrating yoga into the treatment regimen of individuals coping with heart failure. This investigation, conducted at Kasturba Hospital in Manipal, India, involved 85 patients aged 30 to 70 already undergoing conventional medical treatment for heart failure. These participants, all of whom had undergone a heart procedure within the past year and were on heart medications, were divided into two groups: one group of 40 patients received yoga sessions in addition to their prescribed medications, while the other group of 45 patients continued solely with their medication routine, serving as the control group.
Over the duration of the study, the yoga group underwent training sessions focused on breathing techniques, meditation, and relaxation, both at the hospital and with instructions to continue sessions at home once a week. The researchers meticulously tracked various aspects of cardiac health, including the heart’s pumping capacity, function of its main pumping chamber, blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) at the beginning of the study, six months in, and at the one-year mark.
The findings were compelling: individuals who practiced yoga alongside their medication displayed significant enhancements in their well-being, physical capabilities, and cardiac function compared to those who relied solely on medication. These improvements were noticeable at both the six-month and one-year intervals, suggesting a sustained benefit over time. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before incorporating yoga into one’s routine, especially for individuals dealing with heart failure. It’s crucial for patients to receive proper guidance from experienced instructors and to continue their prescribed medications unless otherwise advised.
It’s important to note that the study excluded heart failure patients with severe symptoms, highlighting the necessity for caution and individualized care. Dr. Singh presented these findings at a conference of the European Society of Cardiology in Lisbon, Portugal, indicating a growing recognition of yoga as a complementary therapy for managing heart failure. This research contributes significantly to the expanding body of evidence supporting the potential of yoga in improving cardiac health and overall well-being.
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