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Discussion
Diabetes Mellitus is a slowly progressive disease that detoriates the rate of metabolism and the normal functioning of lunges12 as can also be observed from the findings shown in Table 1. limited joint mobility that occurs as a consequence of change in structural proteins of the joints of the chest and elatin and collagen abnormalities of the pulmonary capillaries and smooth muscles of airways may be the reason for reduced total lung capacity and the disordered lung mechanics13. A reduction of inspiratory capacity is due to reduced capacity of the muscles 14. However, a consistent reduction in MVV among diabetics was seen only in subjects with severe obesity (weight/height greater than 1.1 kg/cm)15.
Preksha Yoga appears to be a specialized respiratory exercise capable of inducing series of beneficial effects besides causing significant improvement of respiratory functions and metabolic rate. Yogic asanas have been observed to lower rate of respiration, increase FEV/FCV, increase slow vital capacity, maximal voluntary ventilation, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), expansion of chest, vital capacity, ability to hold breath and reduce bronchial hyperactivity. 16,17
In our study a measurable degree of airflow obstruction was relieved with yogasanas, pranayama and meditation as can be seen with a statistically significant improvement of PEFR and an improvement of FEV/FVC and PIFR. The exact mechanism involved is not known however, nostril breathing18 releases epinephrine in patients with diabetic autonomic neuropathy, reducing parasympathetic bronchomotor tone, resulting in increased basal airway caliber. 19
Improvement of the FEV, FVC and MVV shows a measurable increase in the respiratory pump efficiency. In different asanas, the abdominal wall is brought into activity. This in turn works on the diaphragm and moves it better, thus helping the lungs empty efficiently. Proper relaxation during various asanas help the patients to exhale more easily.
The minimum production of carbon dioxide in the body through yogasanas and meditation results in slowing the activity of the lungs and the heart.20 Besides, as the individual is relaxed in yogic breathing, the basic need of oxygen decreases. There occurs neither oxygen debt nor increased
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