Effect of Yogic Exercises on Oxygen Saturation Levels at High Altitudes

Abstract

The risk of hypobaric hypoxemia, and the subsequent symptoms of Altitude sickness are increased by high altitude travel. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of new type of yogic breathing-Maheshwarananda’s new Modified Bhujangini Pranayama performed by active yoga practitioners--on the arterial haemoglobin saturation of oxygen (measured by the pulse oximetry - SpO₂) and the heart rate compared to normal spontaneous resting breathing. In the Himalayas, at 3,650m altitude, we conducted a pilot prospective study. SpO ₂ was monitored along with pulse rate. After the yoga breathing exercises, within 3 days of measurement at 3,650m altitude the average SpO₂ value increased from 89.11±4.78 to 93.26±4.44. (P0.001). There were no significant differences in the pulse rate measured (P0.230), before and after yogic breath. The new Yogic breathing-Maheshwar Ananda’s Modified Bhujangini Pranayama-is increasing the arterial haemoglobin saturation compared to normal resting spontaneous breathing. This type of breathing was not affecting the heart rate.