Publication:

Effect of pranayama on quality of life of sweepers: a pre-post experimental study

Background Sweepers perform physically demanding work and remain exposed to dust, noise and environmental stressors, which may negatively influence their wellbeing. Pranayama, a yogic breathing practice, is known to support both physical and psychological health. To study the effect of pranayama on the quality of life of sweepers using the WHOQOL-BREF scale.

Methods Sixty sweepers aged 25–40 years took part in this pre–post experimental study. Participants practiced Anulom Vilom and Bhramari pranayama for 20 minutes per session, five days a week, for four weeks. Quality of life scores were recorded before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test.

Results Significant improvements were observed in the physical health (p=0.001, t=12.648), psychological (p=0.001, t=6.9515) and social relationship (p=0.0042, t=2.97734) domains. No significant change occurred in the environment domain (p=0.3672, t=0.909)

Conclusions Regular practice of pranayama improved physical, mental and social aspects of wellbeing among sweepers. It can be considered a simple, cost-effective method for enhancing quality of life.