Positive Health Online

Abstract

AUST and FISCHER, Berantungsstelle fur Horbehinderte Berlin Neukolln, Germany investigate whether the psychophysical breath work by Middendorf has an effect upon reactions of the body's equilibrium system .

Background

Methodology

Optical patterns were projected onto a video screen to the test person who was standing on a posturographic platform. The test subjects were instructed to shift their centre of gravity according to the patterns which were projected onto the video screen. The patterns consisted of a line which had to be followed in the anterior-posterior and lateral plane, and a circle to be followed clockwise and counterclockwise. There were 3 groups of test subjects, each with 17 healthy people as follows: Group 1: advanced in breath training; Group 2: beginners in breath training; Group 3: no experience in breath work at all.

Results

Compared to the subjects without breath work experience (Group 3), Groups 1 and 2 had significantly better results in the posturographic test with visual feedback. Additionally, the posturographic results immediately following one hour of breath work demonstrated clear improvements in body equilibrium.

Conclusion

Psychophysical breath work by Middendorf leads to a general improvement of the body equilibrium which remains stable over time . The positive results from this study suggests that breath work by Middendorf may be a valuable method for the treatment and rehabilitation of balance disorders.

References

Aust G and Fischer K. Changes in body equilibrium response caused by breathing. A posturographic study with visual feedback. Laryngorhinootologie 76(10): 577-82. Oct 1997.