Breathing and science of Wellness
Those who address wellness-related topics know it very well: the concept of feeling good is changing, and the many sides of the term wellness with it. More and more people are looking for deep psycho-physical well-being. This is why hotels, companies and sports centres are implementing innovative solutions for the regeneration of the mind, as well as of the body.
Yoga and breathing, together with Mindfulness, are undoubtedly among the most popular solutions. Let’s have a look together at the most interesting scientific studies in the sector, selected by the Global Wellness Institute in a recent report.
Breathing and sleep
A 2021 study conducted by Stanford University analysed a sample of 1.000 elementary school children with sleeping disorders and showed amazing results. The regular practice of deep breathing exercises resulted in an average of 74 more minutes sleep per night and almost half an hour more REM sleep.
Breathing and anxiety
A recent study conducted in Brazil has confirmed the positive impact of breathing techniques on anxiety management. It is the first study to prove the influence of breathing on the brain. The research participants underwent fMRI which showed significant changes in the brain areas involved in emotional regulation, a complex ability that greatly influences our quality of life.
Yoga and breathing against depression
A 2019 study conducted by Boston University showed that Yoga and breathing improve the symptoms of depressive disorders. The subjects participated to Yoga and breathing techniques lessons three times a week and registered better quality of sleep, more energy, more positivity and less stress and anxiety in just a month.
Breathing against brain ageing
A 2016 study by UCLA showed that practicing meditation and breathing techniques weekly may prevent the cognitive decline connected to ageing. The study was conducted on a sample of elderly participants suffering from early memory disorders. One group carried out a traditional mental training program in a classroom, whereas the other group did meditation and deep breathing. All cognitive tests have shown positive results on thinking; however, the meditation group had a much more significant mood improvement, better visual and spatial memory, and better communication between the areas of the brain that control attention and focus.
Breathing and blood pressure
A 2019 meta-analysis (49 studies) published on Mayo Clinic Proceedings shows that breathing techniques have as good an impact on hypertension as aerobic exercise, with a decrease up to 11/6 MMhG.
Andrea Zuccari, free-diving world record holder, during a breathing lesson on Zerobody at Casa Starpool
Health Innovation: the Starpool experience in the service of the new health needs
We believe that scientific research is a valuable ally to well-being, and we work every day to make sure that our Wellness concept meets the requirements of people who are increasingly attentive in terms of self-care and balance between body and mind. This is the purpose that brought about our Health Innovation products: innovative solutions for psycho-physical regeneration, stress management and health potential reactivation.