Clinical Efficacy of Bhramari Pranayama on Serum Cortisol in Anidra (insomnia)

Abstract

Introduction:Pranayama is a crucial component of Yoga for preserving health, with established scientific evidence supporting the physiological changes from long-term practice. Bhramari Pranayama is particularly beneficial for restoring hormonal balance and treating conditions such as sleeplessness, anxiety, and depression.Methods:This study enrolled 50 subjects suffering from Anidra (insomnia), who provided informed consent and were divided into two groups: Group A (Bhramari Pranayama) and Group B (sleep hygiene). A total of 23 subjects from each group completed the trial. Group A practiced Bhramari Pranayama for approximately 20–30 min daily, whereas Group B followed sleep hygiene practices. Serum cortisol levels and sleep quality (assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire and a self-prepared questionnaire based on Ayurvedic symptoms of Anidra) were measured before and after the 2-month intervention.Results:The serum cortisol level significantly reduced in the Bhramari Pranayama group (P < 0.001). Statistical analysis using an unpaired t-test showed significant differences between both groups (P < 0.05). Sleep quality also improved significantly in the Bhramari Pranayama group across different prakriti (constitution) types.Conclusion:Two months of regular Bhramari Pranayama practice significantly improves sleep quality and reduces serum cortisol levels. These findings support incorporating Bhramari Pranayama into holistic treatment approaches for insomnia. Further research with larger populations and extended follow-up is warranted to substantiate these results and explore the long-term benefits of this practice.

Keywords

• anidra
• bhramari pranayama
• cortisol
• pranayama
• sleep quality