Breathing-Based Meditation for Improving COPD Burden: A Mixed Single-Case and Qualitative Approach

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects both physical and mental health, with symptoms like dyspnea worsening anxiety and vice versa. This study tested Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), a breathwork meditation program, in nine individuals with varying COPD severity. Using single-case multiple-baseline and qualitative methods, it found SKY feasible and acceptable. Results suggest SKY can alleviate aspects of COPD burden related to mind, body, and breath, and reduce the cyclical effect of disease sequelae. Larger trials are needed, but this is the first evidence supporting SKY as a viable complementary approach for COPD.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) impacts the physiological and psycho-emotional aspects of life. COPD-related secondary sequelae also synergistically interact with each other. For example, dyspnea affects the severity of breath, body functions, and the mind (e.g., anxiety, panic, fear). Such negative psycho-emotional states can further negatively impact the breath and the body (e.g., increased dyspnea). Given the breadth of the impact of COPD on multiple facets of health and well-being, it is essential to investigate comprehensive approaches to managing COPD, simultaneously addressing the mind, body, and breath. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY), a breathwork meditation program, has previously yielded a wide range of physiological and psycho-emotional benefits but has not been explored in individuals with COPD. Using single-case multiple-baseline and qualitative phenomenology methodologies, this study investigated 1) the relation between dyspnea and SKY and 2) the feasibility and general perceived effectiveness of SKY among individuals with COPD. Nine individuals with varying severities of COPD participated. Data collection included ratings of perceived dyspnea (work of breathing, shortness of breath, dyspnea-related distress, dyspnea-related anxiety) and semi-structured in-depth interviews. Results suggest that SKY is feasible and acceptable for individuals with COPD. Additionally, the results demonstrate proof of concept that SKY can help alleviate aspects of the COPD disease burden related to the mind, body, and breath as well as reduce the cyclical effect of the disease sequelae. Larger-scale trials are warranted, but this study is the first to support SKY as a viable complementary and integrative health approach for individuals with COPD.