Title:
Impact of Pranayama (Bhramari Pranayama) on Women Suffering from Postpartum Depression
Author:
Ishani Singh Bartwal, Student of Psychology and Yoga
Abstract:
The present study examines the effect of pranayama—specifically Bhramari Pranayama (also known as the Humming Bee Breath)—on women experiencing postpartum depression. Six women aged between 26 and 32 years were randomly selected from a yoga and wellness centre and participated in a two-week pranayama intervention. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), developed by Cox, Holden, and Sagovsky (1987), was administered both before and after the intervention to assess changes in depressive symptoms. Results revealed a significant reduction in EPDS scores following regular practice of Bhramari Pranayama, indicating an improvement in emotional well-being. The findings suggest that Bhramari Pranayama can serve as an effective complementary approach for alleviating symptoms of postpartum depression.
Introduction:
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent psychological condition that affects many women following childbirth. Although it is common, its symptoms can be distressing and debilitating, impacting both maternal and child well-being. Conventional treatment often involves antidepressant medications, which may produce unwanted side effects or may not be suitable for all women.
In recent years, mind–body interventions such as yoga and pranayama have gained recognition for their therapeutic benefits in managing emotional distress. Among these, Bhramari Pranayama—a breathing technique characterized by gentle humming during exhalation—has been associated with promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and balancing the autonomic nervous system.
This study aims to explore whether consistent practice of Bhramari Pranayama can significantly reduce depressive symptoms among women suffering from postpartum depression.
Hypothesis:
Women who practice Bhramari Pranayama consistently for two weeks will show a significant reduction in postpartum depression levels, as reflected by decreased scores on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).
Participants:
The study involved six women aged between 26 and 32 years, all of whom were experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of postpartum depression. Participants were recruited from a yoga and wellness centre and provided informed consent before participation.
Procedure:
Participants attended daily 30-minute sessions of guided pranayama for two consecutive weeks. Each session primarily focused on Bhramari Pranayama, accompanied by Shanti Path (a traditional Sanskrit peace chant). The sessions were conducted in the morning between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. under the supervision of a certified yoga instructor. Participants were encouraged to maintain consistency and report their daily practice experiences.
Measures:
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was administered before the beginning of the intervention and after the two-week practice period. The EPDS consists of 10 items assessing emotional well-being, with higher scores indicating greater depressive symptoms.
Results:
Analysis of the pre-test and post-test EPDS scores indicated a notable reduction in depression levels among participants following the two-week pranayama intervention. Women who practiced Bhramari Pranayama consistently reported improved mood, emotional stability, and reduced anxiety symptoms.
Discussion:
The results support the hypothesis that Bhramari Pranayama has a positive impact on reducing postpartum depression. The calming vibrations and deep breathing involved in this practice may stimulate the vagus nerve, enhancing relaxation and reducing stress-related physiological responses.
This aligns with prior research suggesting that yogic breathing exercises improve mood, promote emotional regulation, and balance hormonal activity associated with postnatal changes.
Given its accessibility, safety, and non-pharmacological nature, Bhramari Pranayama can be recommended as a complementary therapy for postpartum women, alongside traditional psychological or medical interventions.
Conclusion:
Regular practice of Bhramari Pranayama for just two weeks led to a significant reduction in postpartum depressive symptoms. This suggests that integrating pranayama into postnatal care routines may enhance mental health and overall well-being among new mothers.
References:
Cox, J. L., Holden, J. M., & Sagovsky, R. (1987). Detection of postnatal depression: Development of the 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. British Journal of Psychiatry, 150, 782–786.
Brown, R. P., & Gerbarg, P. L. (2005). Sudarshan Kriya yogic breathing in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and depression: Part II—Clinical applications and guidelines. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 11(4), 711–717.
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