Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease severely impacts the life of patients. What affect can yoga or tai chi have on those with COPD? A study published in Scientific Reports evaluated mind–body exercises and their impacts on stable COPD patients. Using registers and databases, researchers narrowed findings to 15 studies and over 1000 participants to measure lung function and walking tests to determine the viability of nonpharmacologic interventions such as Chinese and Indian exercises along with meditation. The combination of slow moving, low intensity movement and breathing and psychological relaxation were shown to improve exercise capacity and lung function.
This study showed that mind–body exercises:
- Significantly enhanced FEV1 and FEV1%
- Demonstrated improvement in FEV/FVC (the effect on FVC was not significant)
- Significantly improved exercise capacity
The study concluded, “In the absence of adverse events, clinicians might consider incorporating this training modality into the frontline rehabilitation plans for COPD patients” and states that “research needs to further explore the optimal implementation of these interventions to maximize their benefits for patient health.”
