Background:
Research into cardiovascular changes during yoga is crucial for validating its health benefits, enhancing personalized care, and supporting global health strategies.
Aim:
In this context, the present study investigates the immediate effects of Balasana, Viparita Karani, and Apan Vayu Mudra on both cardiac electrical and mechanical activity, contributing to a deeper understanding of yoga’s impact on cardiovascular health.
Methods:
The study was conducted in the year 2024 among thirty healthy students, aged 18 to 25 year who were selected through simple random sampling technique. Each participant performed all three yogic techniques in a single session, with heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and heart rate variability (HRV) recorded at baseline, during, and after the practices using a digital sphygmomanometer (OMRON) and the ADInstruments PowerLab26T Teaching System. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA and Friedman’s two-way ANOVA.
Results:
Both Balasana and Viparita Karani elicited significant increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressures during the posture, with values returning to baseline during recovery, while heart rate exhibited a similar pattern of elevation followed by recovery. In contrast, Apan Vayu Mudra did not result in significant changes in blood pressure. However, it induced an increase in HR during mudra compared to resting phase. Additionally, a decrease in HFnu and an increase in LFnu and the LF:HF ratio was observed during the mudra, relative to resting values.
Conclusion:
Our study demonstrates the immediate effects of yogic techniques sustained over five minutes, highlighting differential cardiovascular responses. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of yoga’s benefits and may help prevent potential adverse effects by promoting more informed practice.
Key words: Balasana, Viparita Karani, Apan Vayu Mudra, HR, BP
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