Yoga may be a beneficial complementary therapy for patients with heart failure. According to a study, significant long-term improvements are noted in patients practicing yoga in addition to their drug treatment.
Heart failure affects more than 64 million people worldwide and can seriously affect quality of life. Patients often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and have difficulty carrying out daily activities. Although previous studies have already shown that yoga can help, a new study presented at the scientific conference Heart failure 2024 of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) highlighted its long-term benefits. Led by Dr Ajit Singh of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), this research highlights lightlight the positive role that yoga can play in addition to traditional medicines.
Breathing, relaxation, meditation
The study involved patients aged 30 to 70 years, who had undergone a recent cardiac procedure and were taking medication as recommended. Of the 85 participants, 40 were assigned to the yoga group and 45 to the control group. All continued to take their usual medications. Patients in the yoga group attended sessions supervised by experienced teachers, where they learned breathing, meditation and relaxation techniques. After a week of supervision, they were encouraged to practice yoga at home for 50 minutes once a week, with regular follow-up.
Yoga as a complementary therapy
Outcomes were assessed at six months and one year, focusing on cardiac structure and function, blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and more. Compared to the control group, the yoga group showed significant improvements in all of these measures, demonstrating a stronger heart and increased ability to carry out daily activities. “ The results suggest that yoga may be a beneficial complementary therapy for patients suffering fromheart failureheart failure said study author Dr. Ajit Singh.
