Yoga reduces irregular heartbeat and anxiety
April 4th, 2011 - 5:09 pm ICT by ANISydney, Apr 4 (ANI): A new US study has revealed that yoga can halve the number of episodes of a potentially dangerous irregular heartbeat, known as atrial fibrillation, and improve the symptoms of anxiety and depression often associated with the condition.
Previous research has demonstrated the positive impact of yoga on overall heart health like lowering high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, but this is the first study to examine its benefits specifically on patients with atrial fibrillation.
“These findings are important because many of the current conventional treatment strategies for atrial fibrillation include invasive procedures or medications with undesirable side effects,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Dhanunjaya Lakkireddy, lead author of the study and an associate professor with the University of Kansas Hospital, as saying.
The study involved 49 patients with the heart rhythm disorder who had no physical limitations and no prior experience with yoga. Their episodes of irregular heartbeat were measured for a six-month period by researchers at the hospital.
During the first three months, patients were allowed to participate in any physical activity they liked.
For the remaining three months, they underwent a supervised yoga program that involved breathing exercises, yoga postures, meditation and relaxation.
Forty-five minute yoga sessions with a certified professional were held three times each week, and patients were encouraged to practice daily yoga exercises at home.
Heart monitors measured episodes of irregular heartbeat throughout the trial.
On average, yoga cut episodes of the irregular heartbeat in half, while also significantly reducing depression and anxiety scores and improving scores in physical functioning, general health, vitality, social functioning and mental health, the researchers found.
Considering its low cost and benefits, Lakkireddy said yoga should be considered in overall treatment of atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm problems.
The findings were presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Cardiology being held in New Orleans. (ANI)
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