Deep Breathing Exercise for Dementia: Freshening Up the Mindscape
In the realm of holistic wellness, Pranayama - a yoga practice that involves controlling the breath in specific ways - has gained attention for its potential benefits, particularly for individuals living with dementia.
Getting Started
- Find a comfortable seated or lying down position with a straight spine and relaxed shoulders. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths through your nose, allowing your belly to expand on the inhale and contract on the exhale.
- Place your index fingers on your ears, with your thumbs resting on your forehead and the remaining fingers resting on your closed eyes.
Performing Bhramari
- Take a deep breath through your nose, filling your lungs. As you inhale, constrict the muscles at the back of your throat to create a soft hissing sound.
- Keep your mouth closed and breathe out slowly through your nose, again constricting the back of your throat to create the same soft hissing sound. As you exhale, make a humming sound, like the buzzing of a bee. Keep your mouth closed and let the sound vibrate in your throat.
Performing Ujjayi Pranayama
- Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose while constricting the muscles at the back of your throat to create a soft hissing sound.
- Exhale slowly and completely through your nose, maintaining the constriction at the back of your throat.
Nadi Shodhana: Balancing the Brain
- Nadi Shodhana is a pranayama technique that involves inhaling and exhaling through one nostril at a time. To perform Nadi Shodhana:
- Block your right nostril with your right ring finger. Inhale deeply through your left nostril.
- Block your left nostril with your left ring finger. Exhale slowly and completely through your right nostril.
- Repeat the steps, switching sides each time.
As you become more comfortable with Nadi Shodhana, increase the length of your inhales, exhales, and breath retention.
Research and Findings
While there are no specific studies found that have investigated the effect of Pranayama in patients with dementia, research suggests that it can improve cognitive function and quality of life in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a precursor to dementia.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease in 2019 found that practicing pranayama and other mindfulness-based interventions improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Pranayama can help people with dementia manage their mood by releasing endorphins, helping them reduce stress and anxiety levels. It can also help balance the left and right sides of the brain, improving brain function, and reducing stress and anxiety in people with dementia.
Safety First
It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or wellness regimen, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
In conclusion, while more research is needed, Pranayama shows promise in aiding dementia patients in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life. Whether practiced on its own or as a part of a yoga practice, Pranayama offers a potential avenue for holistic wellness and stress reduction.
