A study presented at Heart Failure 2024, a scientific meeting of European Society of Cardiology (ESC), highlighted the potential benefits of yoga as a complementary therapy for people with heart failure. The study focused on yoga practices that emphasized breathing, meditation, and relaxation techniques. Heart failure is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue and breathlessness, limiting patients’ ability to engage in daily activities.
The research enrolled 85 patients aged 30 to 70 years who had undergone a cardiac procedure within the past six months to one year and were already taking guideline-recommended heart failure medications. Participants were divided into two groups: a yoga group (40 patients) and a control group (45 patients). The yoga group received instruction and supervision from experienced yoga instructors at the hospital’s Department of Yoga. They practiced pranayama (yogic breathwork), meditation, and relaxation techniques initially under supervision and later at home, continuing for 50 minutes once a week.
Throughout the study, researchers assessed various parameters including heart structure and function using echocardiography, blood pressure, heart rate, body weight, body mass index, and the ability to perform daily activities using the New York Heart Association classification system. The findings disclosed significant improvements in all measurements among participants in the yoga group compared to the control group at both the six-month and one-year marks.
Specifically, those who practiced yoga alongside their prescribed medications experienced enhanced heart function, demonstrated by improvements in left ventricular ejection fraction and right ventricular function. Additionally, they exhibited better symptom management and increased ability to engage in ordinary activities such as walking and climbing stairs. These positive outcomes suggest that yoga could play a beneficial role in improving the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals living with heart failure.
However, it’s essential for patients to consult with their healthcare providers before incorporating yoga into their treatment regimen, especially if they have severe symptoms. Additionally, proper training from experienced instructors is crucial to ensure the safe and effective practice of yoga alongside prescribed medications. This study provides valuable insights into the long-term benefits of yoga as a complementary therapy for heart failure patients, offering a potentially promising avenue for improving their health and quality of life.
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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
