Effect of Raja Yoga Meditation on Pulmonary Functions of Young Obese Medical Students

Obesity is common problem in people of high socioeconomic status of all age group. Obesity reduces the pulmonary as well as cardiac efficiency of subjects. It is associated with depression and negative thought process also making a vicious cycle. Raja Yoga is a type of yogic technique which is widely used by Brahma Kumaries. Raja Yoga generates mental piece and calmness. The present study was conducted to assess the effect of Raja Yoga meditation on pulmonary functions of young obese medical students. A total of 60 obese (BMI>30), non-smoker healthy male subjects of age 18–25 years, voluntarily participated in this study. After getting training of Raja Yoga, subjects practiced Raja Yoga for 4 weeks. Pulmonary function parameters were recorded before and after 4weeks practice of Raja Yoga. Pulmonary function parameters were recorded by using computerized spirometer. Statistical analysis was done by Student's paired t-test. After 4 weeks practice of Raja Yoga; significant increase was found in forced vital capacity (FVC), expiratory reserve volume (ERV) (p<0.05) and more significant increase was seen in peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) (p<0.01). However FEV1/FVC and inspiratory capacity did not show any significant improvement. The results suggest that practicing Raja Yoga is significantly improves the pulmonary functions in obese people.