EFFICACY OF QIGONG EXERCISES ALONG WITH BOX BREATHING FOR MALE SMOKERS WORKING IN COTTON INDUSTRY

Abstract: Backround and objectives: Occupational exposure to cotton dust and cigarette smoking significantly contribute to respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function among cotton industry workers. Cotton dust contains mixed organic and inorganic particles that can lead to chronic bronchitis, obstructive airway diseases, and byssinosis. Complementary therapies like Qigong and box breathing help improve respiratory function by strengthening respiratory muscles and regulating breathing patterns. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of combining Qigong exercises and box breathing in enhancing lung function among male smokers in the cotton industry. Methods: A total of 15 male workers aged 25–40 years, with at least five years of work exposure and a smoking habit, were selected through convenient sampling. Participants underwent Qigong and box-breathing training for 40 minutes, four days per week, for eight weeks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments of Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (MIP), Maximum Expiratory Pressure (MEP), and FEV1/FVC ratio were measured using a respiratory pressure meter and spirometry. Results: Statistical analysis using a paired t-test showed significant improvements in FEV1/FVC (t=14.3), MIP (t=14.4), and MEP (t=17.6), all exceeding the table value of 2.145 at p<0.05. Conclusion: Qigong combined with box breathing is effective in improving respiratory muscle performance and pulmonary function in smokers exposed to cotton dust. Keywords: Qigong, Box Breathing, Cotton Dust, Smokers, Lung Function, Respiratory Muscle Strength, FEV1/FVC, Occupational Exposure, COPD. Title: EFFICACY OF QIGONG EXERCISES ALONG WITH BOX BREATHING FOR MALE SMOKERS WORKING IN COTTON INDUSTRY Author: Selvi Palanisamy, Balamurugan Janakiraman, Arun Balasubramaniam, Mohanraj Kandasamy, Geetha R, Saranraj Palanivel, Aswinkumar Subramaniam International Journal of Novel Research in Life Sciences ISSN 2394-966X Vol. 12, Issue 6, November 2025 – December 2025 Page No: 10-14 Novelty Journals Website: www.noveltyjournals.com Published Date: 09-December-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17865733 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.noveltyjournals.com/upload/paper/EFFICACY%20OF%20QIGONG%20EXERCISES%20ALONG-09122025-4.pdf