ArticlePDF Available

Hemisphere specific EEG related to alternate nostril yoga breathing

Authors:

Abstract and Figures

Background Previously, forced unilateral nostril breathing was associated with ipsilateral, or contralateral cerebral hemisphere changes, or no change. Hence it was inconclusive. The present study was conducted on 13 normal healthy participants to determine the effects of alternate nostril yoga breathing on (a) cerebral hemisphere asymmetry, and (b) changes in the standard EEG bands. Methods Participants were randomly allocated to three sessions (a) alternate nostril yoga breathing (ANYB), (b) breath awareness and (c) quiet sitting, on separate days. EEG was recorded from bilaterally symmetrical sites (FP1, FP2, C3, C4, O1 and O2). All sites were referenced to the ipsilateral ear lobe. Results There was no change in cerebral hemisphere symmetry. The relative power in the theta band was decreased during alternate nostril yoga breathing (ANYB) and the beta amplitude was lower after ANYB. During quiet sitting the relative power in the beta band increased, while the amplitude of the alpha band reduced. Conclusion The results suggest that ANYB was associated with greater calmness, whereas quiet sitting without specific directions was associated with arousal. The results imply a possible use of ANYB for stress and anxiety reduction.
This content is subject to copyright. Terms and conditions apply.
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
DOI 10.1186/s13104-017-2625-6
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Hemisphere specic EEG related
toalternate nostril yoga breathing
Shirley Telles*, Ram Kumar Gupta, Arti Yadav, Shivangi Pathak and Acharya Balkrishna
Abstract
Background: Previously, forced unilateral nostril breathing was associated with ipsilateral, or contralateral cerebral
hemisphere changes, or no change. Hence it was inconclusive. The present study was conducted on 13 normal
healthy participants to determine the effects of alternate nostril yoga breathing on (a) cerebral hemisphere asymme-
try, and (b) changes in the standard EEG bands.
Methods: Participants were randomly allocated to three sessions (a) alternate nostril yoga breathing (ANYB), (b)
breath awareness and (c) quiet sitting, on separate days. EEG was recorded from bilaterally symmetrical sites (FP1, FP2,
C3, C4, O1 and O2). All sites were referenced to the ipsilateral ear lobe.
Results: There was no change in cerebral hemisphere symmetry. The relative power in the theta band was decreased
during alternate nostril yoga breathing (ANYB) and the beta amplitude was lower after ANYB. During quiet sitting the
relative power in the beta band increased, while the amplitude of the alpha band reduced.
Conclusion: The results suggest that ANYB was associated with greater calmness, whereas quiet sitting without spe-
cific directions was associated with arousal. The results imply a possible use of ANYB for stress and anxiety reduction.
Keywords: EEG, Alternate nostril yoga breathing, Cerebral hemisphere symmetry, Breath awareness, Quiet sitting,
EEG relative power, EEG bands
© The Author(s) 2017. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium,
provided you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license,
and indicate if changes were made. The Creative Commons Public Domain Dedication waiver (http://creativecommons.org/
publicdomain/zero/1.0/) applies to the data made available in this article, unless otherwise stated.
Background
e nasal cycle is an ultradian rhythm characterized by
alternating congestion and decongestion of opposite nos-
trils [1]. e nasal mucosal membrane has innervation
from the autonomic nervous system so that sympathetic
dominance on one side results in nasal mucosal vasocon-
striction hence increasing nostril patency on that side.
On the contralateral side there would be parasympathetic
dominance and nasal mucosal vasodilation resulting in
partial or complete occlusion of the nostril on that side.
e nasal cycle varies widely in periodicity. When a con-
tinuous recording of nostril dominance was made, time
series analysis detected periods of the nasal cycle at 280–
275, 165–210, 145–160, 105–140, 70–100 and 40–65min
bins [2, 3].
Werntz etal. [4] showed that the nasal cycle was also
related to the function of the central nervous system.
e finding that forced uninostril breathing has selective
effects on the EEG of the cerebral hemispheres was first
shown in 1983 and later on with greater rigor in 1987 [5].
is is believed to be due to a neural connection aris-
ing from the superior nasal meatus [6]. Activation of the
upper nasal cavity could be produced by air insufflation
without inflation of the lung [6]. Also local anesthesia
of the local mucosal membrane prevented the cortical
changes which follow upper nasal cavity activation.
In a comparison between forced uninostril breathing
and bilateral breathing, the peak power of beta2 in the
frontal EEG was lower during uninostril compared to
bilateral breathing [7].
e effects of forced alternate nostril breathing on the
EEG were studied in 18 trained persons who practiced
forced alternate nostril breathing for 10 min [8]. e
study aimed at differentiating between forced alternate
nostril breathing which began with inhalation through
Open Access
BMC Research Notes
*Correspondence: shirleytelles@gmail.com; officeprfms@gmail.com
Patanjali Research Foundation, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Maharishi Dayanand
Gram, Bahadrabad, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249402, India
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 2 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
the left nostril compared to forced alternate nostril with
right nostril inhalation to begin with [8]. No difference
was reported. However the average power in the beta and
alpha bands increased during both types of forced alter-
nate nostril breathing. Also during the latter half of the
ten minutes of forced alternate nostril breathing there was
a decrease in hemisphere asymmetry in the beta 1 band,
which the authors described as ‘a balancing effect on the
functional activity of the left and right hemisphere.
Yoga voluntarily regulated breathing (pranayama)
allows a practitioner to breathe through one nostril at
a time, effortlessly and selectively [9]. Alternate nostril
breathing is also a common yoga breathing practice [10].
In Indian medicine importance is given to uninostril and
alternate nostril breathing [11]. e effects of uninostril
breathing are described in detail, with left nostril breath-
ing described as ‘cooling and ‘calming’, while right nostril
breathing is described as ‘heat generating’ and energiz-
ing’, and alternate nostril breathing has been described as
‘harmonizing’ [11].
A previous study showed that 18min of alternate nos-
tril breathing lowered the systolic and diastolic blood
pressure in persons with essential hypertension con-
trolled by medication [12].
e present study was planned as a preliminary study
to assess the effects of alternate nostril yoga breathing on
the EEG.
e hypothesis of the present study was that alternate
nostril yoga breathing would reduce hemisphere asym-
metry in EEG as was observed for forced alternate nostril
breathing.
Methods
Participants
irteen healthy males with ages between 18 and 45years
residing in a yoga center in north India participated in the
study. ey were recruited by flyers on the notice boards
of the yoga center. To be included in the trial, participants
had to meet the following criteria: (a) the participants
had to have experience of yoga breathing (pranayama) of
at least 45min a day, practiced for at least 15days per
month, over a minimum period of 6months, and (b) the
participants all had to be right hand dominant based on
a standard handedness questionnaire [13]. e exclusion
criteria were (1) persons on any medication, and (2) the
presence of any illness, particularly psychiatric or neuro-
logical disorders. None of the participants were excluded
based on these criteria. e baseline characteristics of the
participants are given in Table1.
e experimental procedure was approved by the
ethical committee of Patanjali Research Foundation and
signed informed consent was obtained from each partici-
pant before beginning the study.
Design ofthe study
e participants were assessed before, during and after
the intervention. Each participant was assessed in three
sessions, conducted on 3 separate days, keeping the time
of the day constant for a particular participant. e three
sessions were (a) alternate nostril yoga breathing (ANYB),
(b) breath awareness (BAW), and (c) quiet sitting (QS).
Participants were randomly assigned to the three sessions
using a standard randomizer [14], hence the order of the
three sessions was different for different participants.
e total duration of each session was 28 min, i.e.,
5min before the practice, 18min during the practice, and
5min after the practice. During the practice the partici-
pants practiced ANYB, BAW or quiet sitting for 15min
with 1min of rest after every 5min of practice, so that
the duration was 18min. Hence the 15min were divided
into three epochs of 5 min each. roughout the ses-
sion participants were seated on a chair with their spine
straight and eyes closed. Recordings were taken contin-
uously in the pre, during 1, during 2, during 3 and post
periods of 5min each as shown in Fig.1.
Recording procedure
EEG was recorded using Ag/AgCl disc electrodes. e
scalp was prepared using Nuprep skin preparation gel
(Weaver and Co., USA). Electrodes with Ten20 con-
ductive EEG Paste (Weaver and Co., USA) were placed
at FP1, C3, and O1 referenced to the left ear lobe (A1),
and at FP2, C4, and O2 referenced to the right ear lobe
(A2); based on the standard 10–20 system for electrode
placement [15]. Participants were seated in a dimly lit,
sound and electrical-noise attenuated cabin adjacent to
the recording room. Participants were able to receive
instructions or communicate with the examiner using
a two way intercom. roughout a session participants
were observed on a closed circuit television, which they
were informed about prior to the session.
EEG was recorded using Neurotravel LIGHT (ATES
Medica Device, Italy). e sampling frequency was 250
samples per second. e low cut filter was set at .2 Hz
and the high cut filter at 30.0Hz. is had the obvious
limitation of not including gamma frequencies, which
could not be recorded with this equipment.
Table 1 Baseline characteristics ofthe participants (n=13)
ANYBalternate nostril yoga breathing
Age in years (group mean ± SD) 24.2 ± 4.7 years
Average years of education (group mean ± SD) 13.8 ± 1.6 years
Experience of yoga breathing including ANYB
(group mean ± SD) 38.8 ± 32.6 months
Experience of ANYB exclusively 29.2 ± 22.8 months
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 3 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
Interventions
Alternate nostril yoga breathing
e participants sat comfortably with their spine erect
and shoulders relaxed with eyes closed. ANYB involves
breathing through left and right nostrils alternately with-
out retention of the breath. In this practice the thumb and
the ring figure of the right hand were used to manipulate
or occlude the nostrils [16]. Participants were asked to sit
erect in either the half-lotus posture (ardha-padmasana)
or complete lotus posture (padmasana). ey were asked
to keep their eyes closed, gently, without effort. After
this they were asked to keep their non-dominant hand
(the left hand in all participants) on their left knee. ey
flexed the right arm at the elbow and raised their right
hand to the level of their nose. e index and middle fin-
gers of the right hand were flexed to rest their fingertips
on their palms, using their thumb and ring figure of the
right hand to manipulate or occlude the nostrils [16].
Occlusion of the nostrils was gentle. Participants were
asked to begin the breathing practice by exhaling through
the left nostril with the right nostril occluded with the
right thumb; then inhaling slowly through the left nostril;
followed by exhaling through the right nostril with the
left nostril occluded with the right ring finger; then inhal-
ing through the right nostril and exhaling through the left
nostril. With this exhalation one cycle was complete. e
approximate duration of 1 cycle was 6s; with the ratio
of inhale:exhale as 1:1.5 [9]. Participants were asked to
continue breathing like this for 5min. is was timed by
the yoga instructor. ey were then given 1min gap dur-
ing which participants were asked to remain with their
eyes closed and to rest their right fingers on their right
knee. is (5min followed by 1min) was repeated thrice
in the session.
Breath awareness
During breath awareness, the participants maintained
awareness of the breath without manipulation of the
nostrils. Participants were asked to sit erect in either the
half-lotus (ardha padmasana) or complete lotus (pad-
masana) posture and keep their eyes closed. During this
time both arms were extended and the hands were placed
on the respective knees. e instructor asked the partici-
pants to direct their attention to the movement of air into
and out of their nostrils and also direct their awareness
to the movement of air through the nasal passages. e
period of breath was 5min, timed by the instructor, fol-
lowed by instructions to allow attention to wander for
1min. is (5min followed by 1min) was repeated thrice
in the session.
Quiet sitting
Participants were asked to sit with their spine erect and
shoulders relaxed with eyes closed. Participants were
asked to keep their eyes closed and to sit in either the
half-lotus (ardha padmasana) or complete lotus posture
18 minutes
18 minutes
18 minutes
1 minute 1 minute 1 minute
1 minute 1 minute1 minute
1 minute 1 minute1 minute
CTRL
(5 minutes)
CTRL
(5 minutes)
CTRL
(5 minutes)
POST
(5 minutes)
BAW
(5 minutes)
BAW
(5 minutes)
BAW
(5 minutes)
POST
(5 minutes)
PRE
(5 minutes)
ANYB
(5 minutes)
ANYB
(5 minutes)
ANYB
(5 minutes)
PRE
(5 minutes)
PRE
(5 minutes)
POST
(5 minutes)
Fig. 1 A schematic representation of the study design. The stippled area represents pre, during, and post periods. The gray area represents gaps
between practice epochs
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 4 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
(padmasana). ey were asked to stretch their arms out
to rest the fingers of each hand on the respective knees.
Participants were told to allow their thoughts to wander
without restrictions. After 5min they were told there was
a 1min gap, though the instructions during the 1min gap
did not differ from the 5min preceding it. is (5 and
1min gap) was repeated thrice in the session.
Data extraction
EEG records were visually inspected for artifacts due
to eye or body movements. e recordings were all
free from artifact and no part of the records had to be
excluded for analysis. e artifact-free data were spec-
trally analyzed using fast Fourier transform analysis
(FFT). is analysis provided the relative power for each
band as a percentage of the total power. is was pro-
vided for the delta (.5–3.5Hz), theta (4–7.5Hz), alpha
(8–12) and beta (13–30Hz) bands. Also, the actual val-
ues of the average amplitude within a band for a specific
period (e.g., before alternate nostril yoga breathing) were
obtained. ese values were used for analysis.
Data analysis
Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS (Version
18.0). Repeated measures analyses of variance (RM-
ANOVA) were performed with two within subjects fac-
tors, i.e., Sessions (ANYB, BAW and QS), and States
(pre, during, and post). An ANOVA was followed by
post hoc tests for multiple comparisons with Bonferroni
adjustment.
e Bonferroni adjustment was carried out for each
of the multiple post hoc comparisons. e comparisons
which were considered were the ‘during’ and ‘post’ val-
ues compared with the ‘pre’ values of a specific session.
is was separate for each EEG band. With the SPSS soft-
ware Bonferroni adjustment multiplies the uncorrected
p value by the number of comparisons; hence α remains
unchanged [17].
Results
Repeated‑measures analysis ofvariance
(1) Energy of the EEG bands as a percentage of the
whole
e theta energy (%) at C4A2 and O2A2 showed
a significant difference between States (p < .05;
F=2.730, df=1, 48; p<.05; F =1.868, df =1,
48 respectively). e beta energy (%) at FP2A
2
showed a significant difference between States
(p<.05; F=4.482, df=1, 48).
(2) Amplitudes of the EEG bands
e beta amplitude at O2A2 showed a significant
difference between States (p<.05; F=8.400, df=1,
48). e alpha amplitude at C4A2 showed a sig-
nificant difference between States (p<.05; F=.676,
df=1, 48).
For all comparisons the Huynh–Feldt epsilon was equal
to 1.000, hence sphericity was assumed.
Posthoc analyses withBonferroni adjustment
e theta energy (%) was significantly reduced at
C4A2, and O2A2 during the practice of ANYB com-
pared to the values before the practice (p<.05), for both
comparisons. In contrast there was a significant increase
in the beta energy (%) at FP2A2 sites during QS com-
pared to before QS (p<.05).
ere was a significant reduction in the beta ampli-
tude at O2A2 after the practice of ANYB compared to
before ANYB (p<.05). During the QS session there was
a significant reduction in the alpha amplitude at C4A2
compared to before QS (p<.05).
ere were no significant changes following breath
awareness. e mean values ± SD for energy (%) and
amplitude at FP1A
1, FP2A
2, C3A
1, C4A
2,
O1A1, and O2A2 electrode sites pre, during and post
ANYB, BAW and QS are provided in Tables2, 3 and 4.
Significant changes in EEG energy (%) and EEG ampli-
tude are shown in Figs.2 and 3, respectively.
Discussion
Contrary to the hypothesis of the study alternate nostril
yoga breathing was not associated with any change in
cerebral hemisphere EEG symmetry. e relative power
in the theta band reduced during alternate nostril yoga
breathing (ANYB), while the amplitude of beta waves was
lower after ANYB. During the control period of quiet sit-
ting (QS) the relative power in the beta band increased,
while the amplitude of the alpha band reduced.
Hemispheric symmetry was determined (1) based on
coherence as calculated by the software (Neurotravel,
Italy), and (2) based on changes in the EEG amplitude
recorded at symmetrical pre-frontal, vertex, and occipi-
tal sites over the left and the right hemispheres. As men-
tioned contrary to the hypothesis, alternate nostril yoga
breathing did not alter hemispheric symmetry.
Changes in the relative power in the EEG bands
occurred during ANYB and during quiet sitting. ere
was a decrease in the relative power in the theta band
during ANYB at the vertex on the right side. Frontal
theta activity has been related to working memory [18]
and increased frontal and midline theta were related to
a positive emotional state [19]. In general, variations in
the power of theta and alpha bands of the EEG are related
to complex cognitive functions and memory perfor-
mance [20]. Hence the decrease in relative theta power
may be associated with a better ability to perform certain
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 5 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
Table 2 Energy (%) ofthe four EEG bands (μV2) pre, duringand post, ANYB, BAW andQS sessions
Comparisons were of post and during values compared with the pre values of the respective session, i.e., ANYB, BAW and QS. p<.05, RM ANOVA, followed by post hoc tests with Bonferroni adjustment
ANYBalternate nostril yoga breathing, BAWbreath awareness, QSquiet sitting
Sl. no. Bands ANYB BAW QS
Pre
M±SD During Post
M±SD Pre
M±SD During Post
M±SD Pre
M±SD During POST
M±SD
D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD
FP1 A1Delta 31.5 ± 9.6 29.4 ± 12.3 28.9 ± 13.9 28.5 ± 12.2 27.5 ± 11.2 25.2 ± 10.4 24.0 ± 10.4 21.5 ± 10.1 25.5 ± 10.2 26.0 ± 10.4 29.6 ± 10.5 28.0 ± 11.9 28.9 ± 13.9 33.5 ± 15.9 30.8 ± 12.8
Theta 4.2 ± 2.7 2.8 ± 1.5 4.4 ± 4.0 3.5 ± 2.2 5.0 ± 4.1 3.6 ± 3.2 3.8 ± 2.8 4.0 ± 3.9 3.9 ± 2.6 3.7 ± 2.0 4.0 ± 3.5 4.2 ± 4.1 4.4 ± 4.0 4.3 ± 3.2 4.1 ± 3.3
Alpha 2.6 ± 1.5 2.9 ± 2.6 2.1 ± 1.5 3.7 ± 4.0 3.0 ± 2.3 3.4 ± 5.5 3.3 ± 4.8 3.6 ± 6.7 4.4 ± 7.2 3.7 ± 5.1 2.4 ± 2.0 2.2 ± 1.7 2.1 ± 1.5 2.3 ± 1.5 .2 ± 1.3
Beta .8 ± .4 .8 ± .4 .8 ± .6 1.0 ± .5 1.2 ± .8 .8 ± .8 .8 ± .6 .8 ± .6 1.0 ± .7 .9 ± .7 .7 ± .5 .7 ± .6 .8 ± .6 .7 ± .5 .8 ± .6
FP2 A2Delta 28.4 ± 11.4 26.0 ± 11.1 27.3 ± 14.2 26.7 ± 12.9 25.6 ± 10.3 25.7 ± 9.0 24.2 ± 10.7 21.8 ± 11.3 25.0 ± 11.0 25.7 ± 11.5 27.8 ± 9.4 26.3 ± 12.2 27.3 ± 14.2 29.3 ± 12.1 30.1 ± 12.6
Theta 3.8 ± 2.4 2.8 ± 1.2 4.8 ± 4.4 4.0 ± 2.5 4.8 ± 3.6 4.1 ± 3.1 4.8 ± 3.6 4.6 ± 4.8 4.7 ± 3.4 4.3 ± 2.6 4.5 ± 3.6 4.8 ± 5.1 4.8 ± 4.4 5.0 ± 3.4 4.8 ± 3.5
Alpha 2.8 ± 1.8 3.2 ± 2.7 2.4 ± 1.8 4.6 ± 5.0 3.2 ± 2.5 3.7 ± 4.4 3.8 ± 4.0 3.5 ± 4.9 4.7 ± 6.1 4.1 ± 4.6 3.0 ± 2.6 2.6 ± 2.1 2.4 ± 1.8 2.8 ± 1.7 2.8 ± 1.7
Beta .6 ± .2 .7 ± .2 .7 ± .5 .2 ± 1.0 .9 ± .5 .7 ± .4 .8 ± .5 .8 ± .6 .9 ± .5 .9 ± .6 .7 ± .4 .7 ± .5 .7 ± .5 .8 ± .5* .8 ± .5
C3 A1Delta 22.7 ± 6.1 21.5 ± 6.2 24.3 ± 5.5 20.9 ± 7.5 23.7 ± 6.5 21.3 ± 5.7 20.8 ± 7.3 21.7 ± 7.4 22.5 ± 8.1 24.2 ± 8.9 21.9 ± 5.0 23.4 ± 4.0 24.3 ± 5.5 24.7 ± 5.8 23.9 ± 5.3
Theta 9.6 ± 4.2 8.0 ± 3.0 10.4 ± 4.1 8.6 ± 3.3 10.4 ± 3.0 10.3 ± 6.6 9.4 ± 4.3 9.7 ± 4.4 9.8 ± 4.3 10.5 ± 4.9 9.1 ± 4.2 10.0 ± 4.2 10.4 ± 3.0 10.0 ± 4.1 8.6 ± 3.3
Alpha 14.3 ± 12.2 13.6 ± 11.6 13.5 ± 11.3 16.5 ± 16.4 16.3 ± 15.1 16.1 ± 15.0 15.6 ± 16.2 16.2 ± 16.8 16.3 ± 16.8 17.2 ± 17.4 15.1 ± 14.1 14.8 ± 12.5 13.5 ± 11.3 13.3 ± 10.4 13.4 ± 11.6
Beta 2.7 ± 1.5 2.6 ± 1.4 2.9 ± 1.5 3.1 ± 1.6 2.9 ± 1.4 2.6 ± 1.4 2.5 ± 1.5 2.6 ± 1.4 2.7 ± 1.5 2.7 ± 1.4 2.6 ± 1.8 2.8 ± 1.4 2.8 ± 1.5 2.8 ± 1.4 2.9 ± 1.5
C4 A2Delta 24.6 ± 8.1 22.2 ± 8.1 26.8 ± 6.1 21.1 ± 8.9 24.7 ± 7.4 23.7 ± 4.9 23.0 ± 7.0 24.9 ± 7.2 26.1 ± 7.8 26.1 ± 7.8 24.7 ± 5.7 24.8 ± 5.5 26.8 ± 6.1 26.3 ± 5.3 26.6 ± 6.1
Theta 10.4 ± 4.2 8.2 ± 3.4* 11.5 ± 4.2 8.2 ± 3.4 10.6 ± 2.5 10.9 ± 4.1 11.0 ± 4.6 11.3 ± 3.9 11.8 ± 4.4 11.6 ± 4.6 4.2 ± 10.7 4.2 ± 11.0 3.0 ± 11.5 11.0 ± 3.8 11.1 ± 4.0
Alpha 15.4 ± 13.0 14.9 ± 13.5 13.2 ± 10.2 15.9 ± 14.3 14.7 ± 11.8 17.6 ± 15.2 16.1 ± 14.5 17.0 ± 15.2 16.8 ± 15.5 17.0 ± 16.2 14.8 ± 12.5 13.3 ± 10.6 13.2 ± 10.2 12.6 ± 10.0 12.5 ± 8.9
Beta 3.3 ± 1.8 3.7 ± 1.7 2.8 ± .9 4.2 ± 2.8 3.6 ± 1.9 3.2 ± 1.7 2.9 ± 1.3 2.9 ± 1.2 2.8 ± 1.3 2.9 ± 1.2 2.8 ± 1.1 3.0 ± 1.4 2.8 ± .9 2 2.8 ± 1.0
O1 A1Delta 17.8 ± 5.3 17.2 ± 6.5 19.1 ± 6.6 17.5 ± 6.5 20.0 ± 8.2 16.8 ± 6.4 19.6 ± 10.2 18.3 ± 8.9 18.7 ± 9.0 20.1 ± 9.0 17.7 ± 6.3 17.5 ± 5.4 19.1 ± 6.6 19.2 ± 7.2 20.1 ± 6.8
Theta 6.7 ± 2.9 5.8 ± 3.4 7.2 ± 3.9 6.0 ± 2.9 7.7 ± 2.9 6.5 ± 3.2 7.2 ± 4.0 7.1 ± 4.1 7.5 ± 4.2 7.8 ± 4.2 7.0 ± 3.8 6.7 ± 3.4 7.2 ± 3.9 6.9 ± 3.7 7.2 ± 3.7
Alpha 21.1 ± 18.2 18.3 ± 17.4 15.4 ± 14.4 21.2 ± 21.0 19.1 ± 18.1 19.1 ± 18.2 18.1 ± 20.2 18.0 ± 20.1 18.5 ± 21.4 18.7 ± 20.8 19.2 ± 17.1 17.3 ± 15.6 15.4 ± 14.4 16.5 ± 15.8 17.2 ± 15.0
Beta 2.9 ± 1.6 2.9 ± 2.1 2.4 ± 1.0 2.9 ± 2.0 3.2 ± 1.8 2.6 ± 1.3 2.7 ± 1.6 2.7 ± 1.5 2.6 ± 1.4 2.6 ± 1.3 2.5 ± 1.2 2.5 ± 1.2 2.4 ± 1.0 2.4 ± 1.0 2.4 ± .9
O2 A2Delta 19.7 ± 8.8 18.1 ± 7.9 20.9 ± 7.3 18.1 ± 7.4 21.5 ± 8.4 17.7 ± 5.1 19.5 ± 7.6 19.5 ± 5.6 20.1 ± 8.4 19.8 ± 7.5 20.3 ± 7.1 20.1 ± 5.6 20.9 ± 7.3 20.9 ± 7.6 20.7 ± 7.3
Theta 7.2 ± 2.7 5.8 ± 2.8* 8.6 ± 4.7 6.1 ± 2.2 9.3 ± 4.2 7.0 ± 3.3 7.8 ± 3.6 7.9 ± 2.6 8.1 ± 3.6 7.7 ± 3.2 8.0 ± 3.7 9.0 ± 5.0 8.6 ± 4.6 7.9 ± 4.4 8.2 ± 4.3
Alpha 20.8 ± 17.9 18.7 ± 17.2 16.3 ± 15.8 20.8 ± 17.4 19.0 ± 14.7 19.8 ± 21.1 17.5 ± 19.8 19.7 ± 20.1 18.3 ± 20.4 17.8 ± 20.0 18.6 ± 17.1 19.0 ± 17.8 16.3 ± 15.8 16.9 ± 16.6 17.7 ± 16.9
Beta 2.8 ± 1.3 2.8 ± 1.2 2.6 ± 1.4 2.9 ± 1.1 2.8 ± 1.1 2.5 ± 1.2 2.7 ± 1.5 2.8 ± 1.5 2.6 ± 1.4 2.5 ± 1.4 2.6 ± 1.2 2.7 ± 1.3 2.6 ± 1.4 2.4 ± 1.1 2.4 ± 1.1
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 6 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
Table 3 Amplitudes ofthe four EEG bands (in μV) pre, duringand post, ANYB, BAW andQS sessions
Comparisons were of post and during values compared with the pre values of the respective session, i.e., ANYB, BAW and QS. p<.05, RM ANOVA, followed by post hoc tests with Bonferroni adjustment
ANYBalternate nostril yoga breathing, BAWbreath awareness, QSquiet sitting
Sl. no. Band ANYB BAW QS
Pre
M±SD During Post
M±SD Pre
M±SD During Post
M±SD Pre
M±SD During Post
M±SD
D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD D1
M±SD D2
M±SD D3
M±SD
FP1 A1Delta 35.3 ± 16.8 35.0 ± 12.1 35.6 ± 19.5 31.2 ± 12.5 30.0 ± 15.1 34.3 ± 17.9 30.3 ± 15.4 32.2 ± 21.6 28.9 ± 14.8 28.7 ± 13.4 39.0 ± 20.0 35.4 ± 17.1 35.6 ± 19.5 37.4 ± 27.2 35.7 ± 19.1
Theta 12.1 ± 7.3 10.3 ± 3.2 12.3 ± 9.2 10.5 ± 3.5 11.1 ± 5.4 11.7 ± 8.7 11.8 ± 7.2 11.2 ± 6.1 9.9 ± 3.9 9.8 ± 4.6 12.8 ± 8.3 12.0 ± 8.0 12.3 ± 9.2 12.5 ± 8.8 11.7 ± 7.0
Alpha 9.1 ± 4.0 9.3 ± 4.3 8.3 ± 4.8 9.9 ± 5.3 8.5 ± 5.2 8.8 ± 4.4 8.4 ± 4.7 9.0 ± 6.0 8.6 ± 5.1 8.0 ± 4.5 9.1 ± 4.4 8.4 ± 4.5 8.3 ± 4.8 8.3 ± 4.7 8.3 ± 4.4
Beta 5.0 ± 1.9 5.3 ± 1.9 5.0 ± 3.0 5.7 ± 2.8 5.5 ± 3.3 4.9 ± 2.3 4.8 ± 1.9 5.3 ± 3.1 4.9 ± 2.3 4.8 ± 2.2 5.1 ± 2.7 5.1 ± 3.1 5.0 ± 3.0 4.9 ± 2.9 5.0 ± 2.7
FP2 A2Delta 31.0 ± 13.7 30.8 ± 11.6 32.6 ± 19.2 27.0 ± 10.9 26.8 ± 13.3 28.6 ± 12.3 24.8 ± 9.8 29.4 ± 21.1 24.9 ± 12.7 24.5 ± 10.3 34.4 ± 15.8 32.9 ± 17.6 32.6 ± 19.2 33.1 ± 24.6 31.7 ± 16.6
Theta 11.3 ± 5.9 10.0 ± 2.9 12.2 ± 8.5 10.0 ± 3.2 10.5 ± 4.8 10.6 ± 6.1 10.2 ± 4.1 11.2 ± 6.0 9.8 ± 3.7 9.4 ± 3.6 12.4 ± 7.2 11.9 ± 7.4 12.2 ± 8.5 12.1 ± 7.8 11.5 ± 6.4
Alpha 9.0 ± 3.9 9.4 ± 4.3 8.6 ± 5.2 10.0 ± 5.4 8.5 ± 5.1 8.8 ± 4.4 8.5 ± 4.7 9.2 ± 6.3 8.9 ± 5.6 8.1 ± 4.4 9.6 ± 4.9 8.9 ± 4.9 8.6 ± 5.2 8.7 ± 5.1 8.7 ± 5.1
Beta 4.4 ± 1.1 5.0 ± 1.4 4.8 ± 2.2 5.8 ± 2.4 4.8 ± 2.9 4.6 ± 2.0 4.3 ± 1.2 4.8 ± 2.5 4.4 ± 1.7 4.3 ± 1.3 4.9 ± 2.0 5.0 ± 2.5 4.8 ± 2.2 4.8 ± 2.3 4.8 ± 2.1
C3 A1Delta 14.3 ± 2.0 15.4 ± 3.1 14.8 ± 2.8 14.6 ± 2.1 14.0 ± 1.8 14.1 ± 2.2 14.1 ± 2.4 14.7 ± 4.4 14.1 ± 2.9 13.9 ± 3.0 15.7 ± 2.9 14.8 ± 2.4 14.8 ± 2.8 15.0 ± 3.4 14.8 ± 2.8
Theta 9.4 ± 1.6 9.2 ± 1.9 9.7 ± 2.5 9.6 ± 2.1 9.4 ± 1.9 9.2 ± 1.9 9.5 ± 2.1 9.8 ± 3.3 9.4 ± 2.3 9.0 ± 1.8 9.9 ± 2.5 9.6 ± 2.7 9.7 ± 2.5 9.6 ± 2.6 9.7 ± 2.8
Alpha 10.1 ± 5.6 10.8 ± 6.2 10.6 ± 6.8 11.9 ± 7.4 11.0 ± 7.1 10.5 ± 5.8 10.6 ± 6.5 11.2 ± 7.4 10.9 ± 6.9 10.1 ± 6.2 11.6 ± 6.9 10.9 ± 6.6 10.6 ± 6.8 10.6 ± 6.2 10.7 ± 6.7
Beta 4.8 ± 1.3 5.2 ± 1.5 5.1 ± 2.1 5.7 ± 1.7 4.9 ± 1.6 4.9 ± 1.5 4.9 ± 1.6 5.1 ± 2.1 4.8 ± 1.6 4.6 ± 1.5 5.2 ± 2.0 5.1 ± 1.8 5.1 ± 2.1 5.1 ± 1.9 5.2 ± 1.9
C4 A2Delta 14.7 ± 2.0 15.3 ± 2.8 14.9 ± 3.3 15.1 ± 2.9 14.1 ± 2.5 14.7 ± 2.2 14.9 ± 3.3 14.8 ± 3.5 15.0 ± 3.1 14.4 ± 2.4 15.1 ± 3.1 14.9 ± 3.4 14.9 ± .3.3 15.1 ± 4.8 15.0 ± 3.6
Theta 9.5 ± 1.8 9.3 ± 2.1 9.7 ± 2.5 9.7 ± 2.0 9.4 ± 1.8 9.9 ± 2.3 10.1 ± 2.6 10.2 ± 3.1 10.2 ± 2.8 9.6 ± 2.1 9.8 ± 2.3 9.7 ± 2.5 9.7 ± 2.5 9.5 ± 2.4 9.5 ± 2.4
Alpha 10.8 ± 5.2 11.9 ± 5.8 10.3 ± 6.0 13.0 ± 6.7 10.7 ± 6.1 11.5 ± 6.4 11.5 ± 7.2 12.0 ± 7.9 11.6 ± 7.6 10.9 ± 6.8 11.2 ± 6.0 10.5 ± 5.7 10.3 ± 6.0 10.2 ± 5.6* 10.2 ± 5.6
Beta 5.6 ± 2.6 6.8 ± 3.4 5.2 ± 1.6 7.6 ± 5.1 5.5 ± 2.2 5.2 ± 1.4 5.1 ± 1.8 5.2 ± 1.9 5.0 ± 1.9 4.9 ± 1.6 5.2 ± 1.8 5.2 ± 1.9 5.2 ± 1.6 4.9 ± 1.5 5.0 ± 2.0
O1 A1Delta 12.9 ± 3.7 16.0 ± 7.8 14.0 ± 4.8 17.1 ± 7.6 12.8 ± 3.4 13.0 ± 2.9 13.2 ± 3.8 13.1 ± 3.8 13.1 ± 4.4 12.1 ± 2.5 13.3 ± 14.7 14.7 ± 6.4 14.0 ± 4.8 14.5 ± 6.2 14.4 ± 5.7
Theta 8.0 ± 2.7 8.8 ± 4.3 8.4 ± 2.8 9.3 ± 4.0 7.9 ± 2.8 8.1 ± 2.6 8.3 ± 2.6 8.1 ± 2.5 8.2 ± 2.8 7.8 ± 3.1 8.5 ± 2.5 8.4 ± 2.7 8.4 ± 2.8 8.2 ± 2.6 8.3 ± 3.0
Alpha 13.5 ± 10.1 14.7 ± 11.2 12.3 ± 9.6 15.6 ± 12.3 12.6 ± 11.0 12.9 ± 8.6 12.5 ± 9.9 13.0 ± 9.8 12.5 ± 10.2 11.7 ± 9.7 13.5 ± 9.2 13.6 ± 9.8 12.3 ± 9.6 12.2 ± 8.9 12.5 ± 9.1
Beta 5.2 ± 2.2 6.3 ± 3.9 5.0 ± 2.0 6.2 ± 3.0 5.1 ± 2.7 5.2 ± 1.8 5.1 ± 1.9 5.1 ± 2.2 4.9 ± 2.0 4.6 ± 2.0 5.2 ± 2.1 5.1 ± 2.0 5.0 ± 2.0 4.9 ± 1.9 4.9 ± 2.0
O2 A2Delta 13.2 ± 3.7 15.0 ± 6.0 13.9 ± 4.2 14.1 ± 4.1 12.3 ± 2.7 12.3 ± 1.7 12.1 ± 2.1 12.0 ± 2.8 12.5 ± 3.1 11.8 ± 1.8 14.1 ± 3.7 13.7 ± 4.0 13.9 ± 4.2 14.0 ± 4.9 14.2 ± 5.0
Theta 8.3 ± 2.5 8.6 ± 2.9 8.7 ± 3.3 8.5 ± 2.6 8.2 ± 2.4 7.7 ± 1.7 7.8 ± 2.1 7.9 ± 2.4 7.9 ± 2.1 7.6 ± 2.0 8.7 ± 3.1 8.6 ± 3.4 8.7 ± 3.3 8.3 ± 3.0 8.5 ± 3.4
Alpha 13.7 ± 9.2 15.0 ± 10.4 11.9 ± 10.5 15.3 ± 10.7 12.2 ± 9.1 11.6 ± 7.1 10.9 ± 7.1 11.4 ± 7.4 11.1 ± 7.3 10.6 ± 6.9 13.3 ± 9.9 12.5 ± 9.9 11.9 ± 10.5 11.7 ± 9.1 12.2 ± 9.8
Beta 5.2 ± 2.4 6.2 ± 3.3 4.8 ± 2.0 5.9 ± 2.5 4.7 ± 2.1* 4.6 ± 1.4 4.5 ± 1.5 4.5 ± 1.7 4.5 ± 1.6 4.3 ± 1.4 5.2 ± 2.2 4.9 ± 1.9 4.8 ± 2.0 4.7 ± 1.9 4.7 ± 2.1
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 7 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
cognitive tasks, though the connection is not strong. e
theta activity increases in several conditions including
drowsiness associated with a decreased ability to perform
specific tasks [20].
e increase in relative power of the beta band of the
EEG during quiet sitting over the right prefrontal region
could suggest increased alertness, arousal and excite-
ment, which are associated with increased beta wave
activity [21]. Conversely, the amplitude of the beta wave
band was lower after ANYB recorded over the right
occipital region. Beta wave activity is not well under-
stood, and its functional role remains only partially
explained [22]. For instance research has shown that
increased beta wave activity generated in the motor cor-
tex is related to slow motor behavior [23]. A decrease
of beta wave power (i.e., desynchronization) is believed
to be an indicator of movement preparation, execution,
and motor imagery [24, 25]. An arousal based theory [26]
may help explain the changes in beta activity found in the
present study. e arousal theory suggests that increased
beta activity is associated with increased mental activity
or arousal [26]. is suggests that after ANYB there is a
decrease in arousal consistent with descriptions of yoga
breathing as calming [8]. During the quiet sitting ses-
sion, in contrast, the decrease in alpha amplitude over
the right vertex could suggest greater arousal associated
with random thinking in the absence of specific instruc-
tions [27]. is finding of increased activation during
quiet sitting has been found in other studies [28]. It was
suggested that the mental state during quiet sitting may
be comparable to the state of mind wandering and self-
referential processing [29].
Most of the changes described above (during and after
ANYB, and during QS) occurred on the right side. ese
results may be considered comparable to those of an ear-
lier study which assessed cerebral hemisphere specific
task performance in 135 participants, aged between 10
and 17years [30]. Participants were randomly assigned
to (1) left nostril breathing, (2) right nostril breathing,
(3) alternate nostril breathing, (4) breath awareness or
(5) a control state. Hence there were 5 groups (n= 27
each) who practiced the intervention they were assigned
to for 10days. At the beginning and end of the 10 day
period participants were assessed using verbal and spa-
tial memory tasks, considered specific for left and right
hemispheric functions, respectively. All four active inter-
vention groups (left, right and alternate nostril yoga
breathing as well as breath awareness) showed a signifi-
cant increase by 84% in spatial memory scores at the end
of 10days. ese results suggested that yoga breathing
Table 4 Left right coherence asa measure ofhemisphere asymmetry, recorded atprefrontal, vertex andoccipital sites
inANYB, BAW andQS sessions
ANYBalternate nostril yoga breathing, BAWbreath awareness, QSquiet sitting
Sl. no. FP1A1
and FP2A2 (max) C3A1 and C4A2
(max) O1A1 and O2A2
(max) FP1A1
and FP2A2
(2‑peck)
C3A1 and C4A2
(2‑peck) O1A1
and O2A2
(2‑peck)
Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD
ANYB
Pre .92 .04 .89 .03 .79 .07 .87 .05 .86 .04 .72 .07
D1 .90 .05 .87 .05 .76 .10 .85 .08 .84 .05 .69 .10
D2 .90 .05 .88 .03 .78 .07 .85 .07 .85 .04 .71 .07
D3 .90 .05 .88 .04 .77 .09 .85 .08 .84 .05 .70 .09
Post .91 .04 .90 .03 .79 .07 .91 .18 .87 .03 .73 .06
BAW
Pre .90 .06 .89 .03 .78 .06 .87 .07 .86 .04 .72 .07
D1 .89 .06 .88 .03 .78 .05 .90 .23 .85 .03 .73 .06
D2 .90 .05 .89 .03 .79 .06 .86 .06 .86 .03 .73 .05
D3 .89 .05 .89 .03 .78 .05 .85 .05 .85 .03 .72 .05
Post .89 .06 .95 .22 .79 .05 .85 .06 .96 .41 .73 .05
QS
Pre .93 .05 .89 .03 .80 .06 .89 .06 .85 .03 .74 .05
D1 .91 .05 .89 .03 .80 .06 .87 .06 .85 .04 .75 .05
D2 .91 .05 .88 .04 .80 .05 .87 .06 .85 .04 .74 .06
D3 .91 .05 .88 .03 .79 .06 .87 .06 .85 .03 .74 .06
Post .92 .06 .89 .03 .80 .06 .88 .07 .85 .05 .75 .06
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 8 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
increases right hemisphere task performance. In the
present study it is possible that during quiet sitting the
participants who were trained in pranayama practiced
yoga breathing inadvertently. It remains unclear why the
breath awareness sessions showed no change unlike the
study cited above. A possible reason is the small sample
size which is a limitation of the study. Also, the present
study assessed EEG, while the study cited above [30]
assessed verbal and spatial memory task performance.
It would have been ideal to record both measurements
simultaneously. Hence simultaneous recording of the
EEG and cognitive tasks could be a definite direction for
future research.
e findings of the present study are limited by (a) the
small sample size (n=13; effect size=.11 (low), and (b)
the inability to record and report the gamma band of the
EEG with the equipment used.
Despite these limitations, this may be considered a
pilot study which has results suggesting that ANYB
may be calming and may possibly influence cognitive
functions.
Conclusions
Contrary to the hypothesis of the study there was no
change in cerebral hemisphere asymmetry during alter-
nate nostril yoga breathing. Alternate nostril yoga breath-
ing resulted in a decrease in theta band energy at the
vertex and occipital sites on the right side. ere was a
decrease in the amplitude of the beta band after alternate
nostril yoga breathing at the right occipital site, while the
amplitude of the alpha band reduced during sitting qui-
etly without specific instructions at the right vertex site.
Also during sitting quietly without specific instructions
there was an increase in energy in the beta band at the
right prefrontal site.
ANYB (Theta, C
4
- A
2
)
PRE DURING (D1)
ANYB (Theta, O2- A2)
PRE DURING (D1)
CTRL (Beta, FP2-A2)
PRE DURING (D3)
Fig. 2 Energy of the theta and beta bands (μV2). Energy of the theta
band (μV2) showing a significant reduction at C4 A2 and O2 A2
during alternate nostril yoga breathing compared to before. Energy
of the beta band increased during quiet sitting compared to before
at FP2 A2
ANYB (Beta, O
2
-A
2
)
PRE POST
CTRL (Alpha, C4-A2)
PRE
DURING (D3)
Fig. 3 Amplitudes of the beta and alpha bands (µV). Amplitude of
the beta band (μV) showing a significant reduction at O2 A2 during
alternate nostril yoga breathing compared to before. Amplitude of
the alpha band decreased during quiet sitting compared to before at
C4 A2
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
Page 9 of 9
Telles et al. BMC Res Notes (2017) 10:306
Importance andrelevance
Airflow through the nostril can impact the EEG. In this
case alternate nostril yoga breathing had effects on the
EEG suggesting that the practice can be calming and
reduce arousal.
Abbreviations
A1: reference (left ear lobe); A2: reference (right ear lobe); ANYB: alternate
nostril yoga breathing; BAW: breath awareness; C3: vertex, left side; C4: vertex,
right side; QS: quiet sitting; EEG: electroencephalography; FFT: fast Fourier
transform; FP1: left pre-frontal; FP2: right pre-frontal; M: mean; O1: left occipital;
O2: right occipital; RM-ANOVA: repeated measures analysis of variance; SD:
standard deviation.
Authors’ contributions
ST conceptualized and designed the study, interpreted the data, reviewed the
literature and prepared the manuscript. RKG assisted in compiling the manu-
script and completing the revision. AY collected the data, analyzed it statisti-
cally, carried out the literature review and assisted in manuscript compilation.
SP collected the data and assisted in the review of literature. AB conceptualized
and designed the study. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Acknowledgements
The authors gratefully acknowledge the funding from Divya Yog Mandir Trust
to conduct the study.
Competing interests
The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Availability of data and materials
The original data of individual participants are available in spread sheets and
can be accessed on request. At present we have no repository for these data
generated on individual participants.
Consent to publish
Written informed consent was obtained from participants to participate in the
study and to share images or data if required.
Ethics approval and consent to participate
The experimental procedure was approved by the ethical committee of
Patanjali Research Foundation and signed informed consent was obtained
from each participant before beginning the study.
Funding
The research was funded by Divya Yog Mandir Trust, Haridwar, India.
Publisher’s Note
Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in pub-
lished maps and institutional affiliations.
Received: 28 July 2016 Accepted: 13 July 2017
References
1. Shannahoff-Khalsa D. Unilateral forced nostril breathing: basic science,
clinical trials, and selected advanced techniques. Subtle Energ Energy
Med J. 2001;12(2):79–106.
2. Shannahoff-Khalsa DS, Kennedy B, Yates FE, Ziegler MG. Ultradian
rhythms of autonomic, cardiovascular, and neuroendocrine systems are
related in humans. Am J Physiol. 1996;270(4 Pt 2):R873–87.
3. Shannahoff-Khalsa DS, Kennedy B, Yates FE, Ziegler MG. Low-fre-
quency ultradian insulin rhythms are coupled to cardiovascular, auto-
nomic, and neuroendocrine rhythms. Am J Physiol. 1997;272(3 Pt
2):R962–8.
4. Werntz DA, Bickford RG, Bloom FE, Shannahoff-Khalsa DS. Alternating
cerebral hemispheric activity and the lateralization of autonomic nervous
function. Hum Neurobiol. 1983;2(1):39–43.
5. Werntz DA, Bickford RG, Shannahoff-Khalsa D. Selective hemispheric
stimulation by unilateral forced nostril breathing. Hum Neurobiol.
1987;6(3):165–71.
6. Kristof M, Servit Z, Manas K. Activating effect of nasal air flow on epileptic
electrographic abnormalities in the human EEG. Evidence for the reflect
origin of the phenomenon. Physiol Bohemoslov. 1981;30(1):73–7.
7. Stancák A, Hönig J, Wackermann J, Lepicovská V, Dostálek C. Effects of
unilateral nostril breathing on respiration, heart rhythm and brain electri-
cal activity. Neurosciences. 1991;17:409–17.
8. Stancák A Jr, Kuna M. EEG changes during forced alternate nostril breath-
ing. Int J Psychophysiol. 1994;18(1):75–9.
9. Ramdev S. Pranayama Rahasya. Haridwar: Divya Prakshan; 2009.
10. Telles S, Naveen KV. Voluntary breath regulation in yoga: its relevance and
physiological effects. Biofeedback. 2008;36(2):70–3.
11. Muktibodhananda S. Swara yoga: the tantric science of brain breathing.
Munger: Bihar School of Yoga; 1999.
12. Telles S, Yadav A, Kumar N, Sharma S, Visweshwaraiah NK, Balkrishna
A. Blood pressure and purdue pegboard scores in individuals with
hypertension after alternate nostril breathing, breath awareness, and no
intervention. Med Sci Monit. 2013;19:61–6.
13. Oldfield RC. The assessment and analysis of handedness: the Edinburgh
inventory. Neuropsychologia. 1971;9:97–114.
14. Research Randomizer. https://www.randomizer.org/. Accessed 10 Oct
2015.
15. Jasper HH. The ten-twenty electrode system of the International federa-
tion. Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol. 1958;10:371–5.
16. Telles S, Raghavendra BR. Yoga physiology and applications in therapy
and rehabilitation. In: Tandon OP, Tripathi Y, editors. Best & Taylor’s physi-
ological basis of medical practice. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins; 2011. p. 1217–30.
17. Telles S, Sharma SK, Gupta RK, Bhardwaj AK, Balkrishna A. Heart rate vari-
ability in chronic low back pain patients randomized to yoga or standard
care. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2016;16:279.
18. Jensen O, Tesche CD. Frontal theta activity in humans increases with
memory load in a working memory task. Eur J Neurosci. 2002;15:1395–9.
19. Aftanas LI, Golocheikine SA. Human anterior and frontal midline theta
and lower alpha reflect emotionally positive state and internalized
attention: high-resolution EEG investigation of meditation. Neurosci Lett.
2001;310:57–60.
20. Klimesch W. EEG alpha and theta oscillations reflect cognitive and memory
performance: a review and analysis. Brain Res Rev. 1999;29(2–3):169–95.
21. Steriade M, Gloor P, Llinas RR, Da-Silva FHL, Mesulam MM. Basic mecha-
nisms of cerebral rhythmic activities. Clin Neurophysiol. 1990;76:481.
22. Jensen O, Goel P, Kopell N, Pohja M, Hari R, Ermentrout B. On the human
sensorimotor-cortex beta rhythm: sources and modeling. Neuroimage.
2005;26(2):347–55.
23. Pogosyan A, Gaynor LD, Eusebio A, Brown P. Boosting cortical activ-
ity at beta-band frequencies slows movement in humans. Curr Biol.
2009;19(19):1637–41.
24. Pfurtscheller G, Neuper C. Motor imagery activates primary sensorimotor
area in humans. Neurosci Lett. 1997;239(2–3):65–8.
25. Zhang Y, Chen Y, Bressler SL, Ding M. Response preparation and inhibi-
tion: the role of the cortical sensorimotor beta rhythm. Neuroscience.
2008;156(1):238–46.
26. Andreassi JL. Psychophysiology. Human behavior and physiological
response. London: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates; 2000.
27. Neznamov GG, Bochkarev VK, Reutova MA, Shabanova AA, Siuniakov SA.
Ladasten versus placebo effect self-evaluated by neurasthenia patients
with different EEG alpha rhythm types. Eksp Klin Farmakol. 2012;75(5):7–13.
28. Telles S, Gupta RK, Singh N, Balkrishna A. A functional near-infrared spec-
troscopy study of high-frequency yoga breathing compared to breath
awareness. Med Sci Monit Basic Res. 2016;22:58–66.
29. Whitfield-Gabrieli S, Moran JM, Nieto-Castañón A, Triantafyllou C, Saxe
R, Gabrieli JD. Associations and dissociations between default and self-
reference networks in the human brain. Neuroimage. 2011;55:225–32.
30. Naveen KV, Nagarathna R, Nagendra HR, Telles S. Yoga breathing through
a particular nostril increases spatial memory scores without lateralized
effects. Psychol Rep. 1997;81(2):555–61.
Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Terms and Conditions
Springer Nature journal content, brought to you courtesy of Springer Nature Customer Service Center GmbH (“Springer Nature”).
Springer Nature supports a reasonable amount of sharing of research papers by authors, subscribers and authorised users (“Users”), for small-
scale personal, non-commercial use provided that all copyright, trade and service marks and other proprietary notices are maintained. By
accessing, sharing, receiving or otherwise using the Springer Nature journal content you agree to these terms of use (“Terms”). For these
purposes, Springer Nature considers academic use (by researchers and students) to be non-commercial.
These Terms are supplementary and will apply in addition to any applicable website terms and conditions, a relevant site licence or a personal
subscription. These Terms will prevail over any conflict or ambiguity with regards to the relevant terms, a site licence or a personal subscription
(to the extent of the conflict or ambiguity only). For Creative Commons-licensed articles, the terms of the Creative Commons license used will
apply.
We collect and use personal data to provide access to the Springer Nature journal content. We may also use these personal data internally within
ResearchGate and Springer Nature and as agreed share it, in an anonymised way, for purposes of tracking, analysis and reporting. We will not
otherwise disclose your personal data outside the ResearchGate or the Springer Nature group of companies unless we have your permission as
detailed in the Privacy Policy.
While Users may use the Springer Nature journal content for small scale, personal non-commercial use, it is important to note that Users may
not:
use such content for the purpose of providing other users with access on a regular or large scale basis or as a means to circumvent access
control;
use such content where to do so would be considered a criminal or statutory offence in any jurisdiction, or gives rise to civil liability, or is
otherwise unlawful;
falsely or misleadingly imply or suggest endorsement, approval , sponsorship, or association unless explicitly agreed to by Springer Nature in
writing;
use bots or other automated methods to access the content or redirect messages
override any security feature or exclusionary protocol; or
share the content in order to create substitute for Springer Nature products or services or a systematic database of Springer Nature journal
content.
In line with the restriction against commercial use, Springer Nature does not permit the creation of a product or service that creates revenue,
royalties, rent or income from our content or its inclusion as part of a paid for service or for other commercial gain. Springer Nature journal
content cannot be used for inter-library loans and librarians may not upload Springer Nature journal content on a large scale into their, or any
other, institutional repository.
These terms of use are reviewed regularly and may be amended at any time. Springer Nature is not obligated to publish any information or
content on this website and may remove it or features or functionality at our sole discretion, at any time with or without notice. Springer Nature
may revoke this licence to you at any time and remove access to any copies of the Springer Nature journal content which have been saved.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Springer Nature makes no warranties, representations or guarantees to Users, either express or implied
with respect to the Springer nature journal content and all parties disclaim and waive any implied warranties or warranties imposed by law,
including merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose.
Please note that these rights do not automatically extend to content, data or other material published by Springer Nature that may be licensed
from third parties.
If you would like to use or distribute our Springer Nature journal content to a wider audience or on a regular basis or in any other manner not
expressly permitted by these Terms, please contact Springer Nature at
onlineservice@springernature.com
... Different EEG frequency bands have varying powers that can be used to measure brain activity and identify neurological conditions. EEG signals can be categorized into five primary frequency bands, nam ly Delta (0.1-4 Hz), Theta (4-8 Hz), Alpha (8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13), Beta (13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27)(28)(29)(30), and Gamma . The exact boundaries of these bands can vary depending on the source. ...
... Pranayama using alternate nostril breathing demonstrated a decrease in theta band power, which was associated with greater calmness in the brain. [28] This was also associated with a better ability to perform certain cognitive tasks. A significant increase in EEG theta activity was shown pre-to post-Tai Chi/ Yoga session, which suggested increased relaxation and decreased anxiety. ...
... In another study, the amplitude of the beta waveband was lowered over the right occipital region after alternate nostril yoga breathing. [28] This shows that, in line with descriptions of yoga breathing as soothing, there is a decrease in alertness following alternate nostril yoga breathing. Previous research also suggested that the deeper meditation states, such as samadhi or "transcendence," were associated with the beta activity displayed by experienced meditators. ...
Article
Full-text available
Stress is an enormous concern in our culture because it is the root cause of many health issues. Yoga asanas and mindfulness-based practices are becoming increasingly popular for stress management; nevertheless, the biological effect of these practices on stress reactivity is still a research domain. The purpose of this review is to emphasize various biosignals that reflect stress reduction through various yoga-based practices. A comprehensive synthesis of numerous prior investigations in the existing literature was conducted. These investigations undertook a thorough examination of numerous biosignals. Various features are extracted from these signals, which are further explored to reflect the effectiveness of yoga practice in stress reduction. The multifaceted character of stress and the extensive research undertaken in this field indicate that the proposed approach would rely on multiple modalities. The notable growth of the body of literature pertaining to prospective yoga processes is deserving of attention; nonetheless, there exists a scarcity of research undertaken on these mechanisms. Hence, it is recommended that future studies adopt more stringent yoga methods and ensure the incorporation of suitable participant cohorts.
... Yoga incorporates physical exercise with deep relaxation, specific breathing, and meditation exercises [3]. It is known to enhance not only physical abilities but also emotional stability and concentration [4,5]. In particular, Bikram yoga includes a breathing therapy called Kapalbhati, which increases mental activity and induces a calm alert state [6]. ...
... Furthermore, the alpha wave related to the respiratory system, mental relaxation, and tranquility increases after yoga [7][8][9]. There are also reports that the beta wave is closely related to concentration, alertness, stimulation, and caution when sitting upright after yoga or performing moderate physical activities [5]. Yoga assists their sense of acceptance and focus [10]. ...
... The average RMB values commonly increased for all clothes, except G2. Three sets of yoga clothes (G1, G3, G4) supported previous studies that suggested that wearing yoga clothes enhances concentration after yoga [5]. G2 showed no significant difference. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study analyzes how the beta index, which is closely related to alertness, caution, concentration, anxiety, and tension in brain activity, varies before and after practicing yoga. Electroencephalogram (EEG) and subjective evaluations were conducted on healthy female yoga trainers with over three years of experience; participants wore yoga clothes with differing characteristics in a hot environment. Repeated ANOVA measurements were conducted on the data by deriving the difference between the corresponding sample t-test pre- and post-yoga. After yoga, concentration increased, while alertness, anxiety, and excitement decreased depending on the yoga clothes. The clothing combination that offered higher pressure and greater absorption, and enhanced concentration while lowering excitation and anxiety increased beta waves the most. The design characteristics of yoga clothes influence beta power for concentration and arousal after yoga practice. Through EEG measurements, it was possible to explore the mental states resulting from wearing clothes suitable for yoga.
... According to Brown and Gerbarg (2009), engaging in voluntary breathing can affect a change in the emotional states. Specifically, slow deep breathing can decrease anxiety and arousal and lead to calmness and focus (Telles et al., 2017;Wells et al., 2012). Researchers have also noted the benefits of mindful breathing, suggesting that focusing on breath helps anchor attention in the moment (Miller & Nozawa, 2005;Solloway, 1999), increases our self-awareness and self-regulation (Ghiya, 2017), and increases physical and mental wellbeing (Kuppusamy et al., 2018). ...
... ANB can help reduce the risk of cardiorespiratory complications by acting upon the effector organs, i. e. lungs and heart. (14,15,16) Data analysis suggests that regular practice of ANB improves the respiratory endurance and capacity in individuals, evidenced by the significant increase in FVC, FEV1, and PEFR from their baseline values, ultimately contributing to a reduction in risk and compli-cations in pulmonary and cardiovascular disorders (17,18). The increase in FVC might be the strengthening of respiratory muscles by regular practice of breathing exercises. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction- Alternate nostril breathing has positively affected the cardio-respiratory system. This review aimed to compile information on the effects of alternate nostril breathing on cardiorespiratory function. Method– Databases such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were systematically searched to review current evidence of randomized control trials (RCT) on alternate nostril breathing over the past two decades. Out of 89 articles, six were chosen for the final data extraction based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results- All of the final included studies demonstrated a significant improvement in respiratory endurance and functioning and a high heart rate variability (HRV) that mostly has a parasympathetic effect. Conclusion- Alternate nostril breathing shows promising results in reducing stress, improving cardiovascular and respiratory function, and reducing complications of pulmonary problems in the future.
... 65 ANB decreased relative power in the theta band during the practice and decreased postpractice beta amplitude, indicative of stress and anxiety management. 66 Coherent and FDB initiate adequate interhemispheric synchronization and generate a dominant global brain rhythm with high-frequency cerebral activity by downregulating the HPA axis and the sympathetic tone, resulting in improved autonomic and emotional control, cognitive functions, and the QoL. 67,68 FDB infuses 5 to 6 times more air into the lungs resulting in the optimal gaseous exchange between alveoli and pulmonary capillaries and enhanced elasticity and vascular supply to the lung tissues that remain passive during quiet breathing. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background and Purpose About 56% of symptomatic COVID-19 survivors have been found with neuropsychological comorbidities, such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorders (PTSD), and impaired quality of life (QoL). Alongside, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, regenerative, immunomodulatory, cardio-pulmonary health promotive, and psychological benefits of yogic and Ayurvedic intervention are well documented. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of online Yoga (OYI) and Yoga cum Ayurveda intervention (OYAI) on COVID-19-induced depression, anxiety, PTSD, and poor QoL. Method Seventy-two participants (males/females: 33/26) with at least a 3-month back history of symptomatic COVID-19 infection and age (mean ± SD: 32.33 ± 9.9 and 33.04 ± 12.9 for males and females, respectively) were recruited from Patanjali Ayurveda Hospital, Haridwar, India, and All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India, before random allocation into an equal-sized control group (CG), Yoga group (YG) and Yoga cum concoction (YCG) group. Split-plot analysis of variance and Kruskal–Wallis tests with Bonferroni adjusted post hoc comparisons were computed for normal and nonnormal data using IBM SPSS (25th Version, SPSS South Asia Private Limited, Bangalore, India). Results Both the treatments—the 30-day OYI and OYAI, significantly improved depression ( P < .002, ES: -0.99 and P < .001, ES: -2.11), anxiety ( P < .001, ES: -1.32 and -1.89), PTSD ( P < .001, ES: -1.8 and -1.83) and QoL related constructs ( P < .001, ES: 0.63 and 0.76; 0.71 and 0.93 for each OYI and OYAI versus general health and physical health; P < .001, ES: 0.65 for OYAI versus psychological health; and P < .003, ES: 0.54 for OYI versus environment) of the participants compared to the controls. Conclusion OYAI may better ameliorate COVID-19-induced psychological comorbidities than OYI with no adverse effects.
Article
A BSTRACT Background Previously, both psychological and yogic relaxation techniques have shown a reduction in anxiety and also an improvement in cognition and mental health. In authors’ knowledge, no study has been conducted to assess the immediate effects of the Jacobson Progressive Muscle Relaxation (JPMR) on attention and psychological states. Hence, the aim of the present study was to assess the immediate effects of the JPMR and listening to Om Chanting on the attention and psychological states, i.e,., (i) happiness, (ii) anger, (iii) emotional stability, and (iv) positivity among university students. Design The research design used in this study is a randomized controlled design. Materials and Methods In the present study, 90 university students with ages 18­23 years (mean ± standard deviation: 21.5 ± 2.3 years) were randomized into three intervention groups, i.e,. JPMR, listening to Om Chanting and quiet sitting (QS) as a control group. The time duration for each intervention was 20 min. Each participant was assessed for (a) attention using six-letter cancellation test and (b) psychological states, i.e,. (i) happiness, (ii) anger, (iii) emotional stability, and (iv) positivity using the Visual Analog Scale, before and after all three interventions. Paired t-test was performed to compare before and after values of each variable of the participants. Results Twenty-minute practice of JPMR improved psychological states such as (i) happiness ( p < 0.05), (ii) emotional stability ( p < 0.05), and (iii) positivity ( p < 0.01). In addition, both attention and anger levels were reduced after 20 min of listening to Om Chanting ( p < 0.01, respectively). In addition, QS reduced the attention level of the participants ( p < 0.01). Conclusion Findings of the present study suggest that the 20 min of practice of progressive muscle relaxation techniques as a psychological relaxation technique improves psychological states such as the levels of happiness, emotional stability, and positivity whereas 20 min of listening to Om Chanting showed a reduction in the scores of anger and attention.
Article
Die Atmung wirkt sich auf die motorische Kontrolle und die Haltungsstabilität aus. Erklärt werden im folgenden Artikel der Begriff des Atemmusters und die Auswirkung des dysfunktionalen Atemmusters Mundatmungssyndrom auf die Haltung. Diese Haltungsanpassung wird mit ihren Auswirkungen auf die Atemmuskeln beschrieben. Um dieses Krankheitsbild besser zu verstehen, wird auf ihre pathologische Emotionsregulierung eingegangen. Zuletzt wird ein osteopathischer Therapieansatz vorgestellt.
Article
The nasal dominance (ND) determination is crucial for nasal synchronized ventilator, optimum nasal drug delivery, identifying brain hemispheric dominance, nasal airway obstruction surgery, mindfulness breathing, and for possible markers of a conscious state. Given these wider applications of ND, it is interesting to understand the patterns of ND with varying temperature and respiration rates. In this paper, we propose a method which measures peak-to peak temperature oscillations (difference between end-expiratory and end-inspiratory temperature) for the left and right nostrils during nasal breathing. These nostril-specific temperature oscillations are further used to calculate the nasal dominance index, nasal laterality ratio, inter-nostril correlation, and mean of peak-to-peak temperature oscillation for inspiratory and expiratory phase at - 1) different ambient temperatures of 18°C, 28°C, and 38°C and 2) at three different respiration rate of 6 bpm, 12 bpm, and 18 bpm. The peak-to-peak temperature (Tpp) oscillation range (averaged across participants; n = 8) for the left and right nostril were 3.80±0.57°C and 2.34±0.61°C, 2.03±0.20°C and 1.40±0.26°C, and 0.20±0.02°C and 0.29±0.03°C at the ambient temperature of 18°C, 28°C, and 38°C respectively (averaged across participants and respiration rates). The nasal dominance index (NDI) and nasal laterality ratio (NLR) averaged across participants and three different respiration rates were 35.67±5.53 and 2.03±1.12; 8.36±10.61 and 2.49±3.69; and -25.04±14.50 and 0.82±0.54 at the ambient temperature of 18°C, 28°C, and 38°C respectively. The Shapiro–Wilk test, and non-parametric Friedman test showed a significant effect of ambient temperature conditions on both NDI and NLR. No significant effect of respiration rate condition was observed on both NDI and NLR. The findings of the proposed study indicate the importance of ambient temperature while determining nasal dominance during the diagnosis of breathing disorders such as septum deviation, nasal polyps, nosebleeds, rhinitis, and nasal fractions, and in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for nasal synchronized ventilator.
Article
Investigating the response of ocular hypertension and quality of life to a 4-week alternate-nostril breathing exercise (ANBE) in older adults with systemic hypertension (SH) and high-tension form of primary open-angle glaucoma (HTF-POAG) was our aim. Sixty older adults with SH and HTF-POAG were randomly assigned to the ANBE group (n=30, received morning and evening 30 min sessions of daily ANBE) or the control (waitlist) group (n=30). Right-eye intraocular pressure (IOP), left-eye IOP, blood pressure, short-form-36 survey (SF36S), rates of respiration and radial-artery pulsation, hospital anxiety and depression scale (depression subscale abbreviated as HADS-D and anxiety subscale abbreviated as HADS-A), and glaucoma quality-of-life 15-item questionnaire (GQoL-15) were assessed. All measurements were improved in the ANBE group only. In conclusion, a 4-week ANBE could be an adjunctive modality to improve HADS-D, rates of respiration and radial-artery pulsation, HADS-A, blood pressure, IOP, GQol-15, and SF36S in older adults SH and HTF-POAG.
Article
Full-text available
Background Meditation is a conscious mental discipline, that has been implicated in the relaxation response. The mechanism behind such a relaxing effect is psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), based on the interaction between mind, physical health, and self-healing; that conceptualizes that stress and an individual’s emotional state led to predisposition to diseases. Research to date suggests that meditation may play an active role in remodeling the imbalance between mind and body by modulating the psychoneuroimmunological effects of stress. However, to date, the multi-dimensional psychoneuroimmune aspects of meditation together have not been completely explicated. An evidence-based mechanism has been framed for the first time in India to explain the psychoneuroimmunology of regular and long-term meditation practice. Summary Present evidence-based mechanism confirms prefrontal cortex (PFC) acts as a ‘Functional Connectome’ where psycho-neuro-immune aspects of meditation function simultaneously to exert positive benefits in the regulation of cognitive and emotional behavior. Also, this mechanism will help us to understand how human augmentation with lifestyle modification fosters brain plasticity to overcome various neuropsychiatric illnesses. Key Message Meditation is a scientific tool against neuro-psychiatric illnesses.
Article
Full-text available
Background Chronic pain can alter the autonomic balance with increased sympathetic activity reflected in altered heart rate variability (HRV). It has been proposed that yoga can be useful to correct the autonomic imbalance in patients with chronic pain who have reduced HRV. Methods and designsIn the present randomized controlled trial 62 patients with chronic low back pain associated with altered alignment of intervertebral discs (aged between 20 and 45 years, 32 males) were randomized to 2 groups. One group received yoga for 3 months while the other group carried out standard medical care based on the physician's advice. The duration was the same, i.e., 3 months. The heart rate variability and rate of respiration were assessed at baseline and at the end of 3 months. ResultsThere was a significant difference in the baseline (pre) values between groups (p = 0.008) for respiration rate which was higher in the yoga group. The changes reported below are pre-post comparisons within each group. The yoga group showed a significant (p < 0.05; repeated measures ANOVA, post-hoc analyses) decrease in the LF power of HRV, rate of respiration and a significant increase in the HF power of HRV and in the pNN50. Conclusion The results suggest that yoga practice can shift the autonomic balance towards vagal dominance in patients with chronic low back pain associated with altered alignment of intervertebral discs. Trial registrationThe study is registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2012/11/003094) and can be accessed at.
Article
Full-text available
Background High-frequency yoga breathing (breath rate of 2.0 Hz) has been associated with changes in oxy-hemoglobin in the prefrontal region of the brain. The present study assessed the effects of high-frequency yoga breathing (HFYB) at 1.0 Hz on frontal oxy-hemoglobin (oxy-Hb) and deoxy-hemoglobin (deoxy-Hb). Material/Methods Forty healthy male participants were recruited for the study. The experimental group consisted of 20 participants 23–40 years old (group mean ±S.D., 26.4±4.7 years) with at least 3 months of experience performing HFYB (group mean ±S.D., 16.3±9.8 months). The control group consisted of 20 participants ages 23–38 years (group mean age ± S.D., 27.4±4.1 years), who were seated quietly for the same duration and their average experience of yoga practice was (±S.D.) 4.3±2.7 months. Each participant in the experimental group was assessed at 2 sessions (HFYB and breath awareness [BAW]) on alternate days. Hemodynamic changes were assessed using a functional near-infrared spectroscopy sensor placed over the forehead. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analyses of variance followed by post hoc Bonferroni adjustment. Results A significant reduction was observed in oxy-Hb during and after HFYB on the left and right sides compared to values before. We also found a significant reduction in deoxy-Hb during and after the quiet sitting control session compared to pre-session values on left and right sides. Conclusions The decrease in oxy-Hb during and after HFYB suggests that there was no frontal activation during HFYB when practiced at the rate of 1.0 Hz.
Article
Full-text available
Background Previously alternate nostril yoga breathing (anuloma-viloma pranayama) was shown to reduce the blood pressure (BP) in people with hypertension. An elevated BP has been associated with poor performance in certain tasks requiring attention and co-ordination. The Purdue pegboard task assesses manual dexterity and eye-hand co-ordination. Material/Methods In the present study there were ninety participants with essential hypertension. Their ages ranged from 20 to 59 years (group average age ±S.D., 49.7±9.5 years; sixty males). Participants were randomized as three groups, with thirty participants in each group. One group practiced alternate nostril yoga breathing for 10 minutes, the second group practiced breath awareness for the same duration and the third group was given a control intervention (i.e., reading a magazine with neutral content). Assessments were taken before and after the interventions for participants of the three groups. Assessments included the blood pressure and performance in the Purdue pegboard task. Data were analyzed with a repeated measures ANOVA and post-hoc analyses were Bonferroni adjusted. Results Following alternate nostril breathing (ANYB) there was a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.001 and p<0.05), and an improvement in Purdue pegboard task scores for both hands (p<0.05), and for the right hand (p<.001). Breath awareness (the control session) also showed a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (p<0.05). The right hand scores improved in the group reading a magazine (p<0.05). Conclusions The results suggest that the immediate effect of ANYB is to reduce the BP while improving the performing in a task requiring attention, bimanual dexterity and visuo-motor co-ordination.
Article
The study was focused on the clinico-pharmacological analysis of differences between subjective and objective assessment of the effects of antiasthenic drug ladasten and placebo effects in patients with neurasthenia with different individual patterns manifested in their EEG alpha rhythms and MMPI findings. It is established that, in patients with neurasthenia characterized by reduced EEG alpha activity combined with emotional lability and inertness, the therapeutic action and effectiveness of ladasten and placebo was more robust (the subjective estimation was higher) than in patients with prominent alpha rhythm and sthenic personal traits. The self-assessment of the effect of single test doses of ladasten and placebo was independent of the individual differences of EEG alpha rhythm organization and personal traits with respect to tolerability, wish to continue the treatment, activating and calming effects. In long-term treatment, higher subjective estimations of the ladasten and placebo effect appeared in patients with reduced EEG alpha rhythm, and the difference corresponded to objective indices of the psychotropic action and effectiveness of the drug.
Article
Regulating the breath is an important part of yoga practice. Descriptions in traditional yoga texts mention breath regulation as a way of getting spiritual realization. In yoga, there are several ways to modify breathing, such as changing the rate and depth, holding the breath, breathing through the mouth, or breathing alternately through one or both nostrils. These voluntarily regulated yoga breathing techniques are called pranayamas in Sanskrit. Brief descriptions of these techniques in traditional yoga texts as well as their physiological effects are given here. General All life processes are sustained by some form of energy; hence, those organisms that can efficiently procure and use the energy they need are likely to have a better chance of survival in a competitive environment (Poon, 1992). In the ancient Indian science of yoga, there is a definite emphasis on respiration and respiratory control. In Indian texts