A research by Swedish scientists suggests that practicing yoga can help improve patients who are suffering from an abnormal heart rhythm as well as lower heart rate and blood pressure level.

Researchers from the Sophiahemmet University in Switzerlandinvestigated the impact of yoga on patients suffering from paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition wherein the heart produces faulty electrical signals and beats rapidly then abruptly stops on its own.

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Because of this, most patients living with such condition are unable to live the life they want, most often refusing dinners, going out with friends or travelling as they fear that it may happen anytime soon, said Dr. Maria Wahlstrom, head researcher. 

The study enrolled 80 patients suffering from paroxysmal AFib and were randomly assigned between the yoga and the control groups, which do not practice yoga. Participants were asked to join and perform yoga for one hour, once a week for 12 consecutive weeks with the assistance of a professional instructor. Activities include deep breathing, light movements, and meditation.

Following the 12-week yoga sessions, SF-36 mental health scores of the yoga group were higher and both heart rate and blood pressure level were lower than the control group, explaining that "the breathing and movement may have beneficial effects on blood pressure," Wahlstrom revealed.

"Patients in the yoga group said it felt good to let go of their thoughts and just be inside themselves for a while," she noted.

The condition is currently affecting 1.5 to 2 percent of the developed countries' general population, according to DNAIndia. Usually, patients suffering from paroxysmal AFib go through AFib episodes that last less than 48 hours and abruptly stop by themselves. Of note, some patients could last up to seven days. AFib is usually manifested by severe chest pain, difficulty in breathing and dizziness. The disease currently has no reported cure.

The study is published in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing.

TagsYoga, cardiac problems, Heart disease, atrial fibrillation, healthy lifestyle