SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS OF BHRAMARI PRANAYAMA ON PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES AMONG MIDDLE AGED POLICE WOMEN – A RANDOMIZED CONTROL STUDY

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Bhramari pranayama on psychological variables, specifically sleep quality and self-confidence, among middle-aged police women. Forty female police personnel [ages 35-45] from Greater Chennai were randomly assigned to either a Bhramari pranayama (Bhr.P) group [n=20] or a control group [n=20] The Bhr.P group practiced Bhramari pranayama, consisting of 4-5 breaths per minute for 5 minutes followed by a 2-minute rest, repeating this cycle for 45 minutes, five days a week for 30 days. The control group engaged in active rest. Psychological profiles were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Self-Confidence (SC) questionnaire, and statistical analysis using paired ‘t’ tests indicated a significant [p<0.05] improvement in sleep quality and self-confidence in the Bhr.P group compared to the control group. These results suggest that Bhramari pranayama effectively improves sleep quality and self-confidence among police women and may be valuable for further clinical studies.