Investigation of lung capacity, cognitive and affective mindfulness and stress levels of university students performing breathing exercises

This study aims to investigate the effects of breathing exercises on lung capacity, cognitive and affective mindfulness, and stress levels in university students. An experimental design was employed, where the data of a student experimental group, who engaged in regular breathing exercises (one hour, three times a week) for eight weeks, were compared to those of a control group that did not partake in the exercises. Lung capacities of the students were assessed using spirometry, while cognitive and affective mindfulness, as well as stress levels, were measured using standardized scales. The sample consisted of 36 students were randomly selected from Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University. The results of the ANOVA test revealed a significant improvement in both cognitive and affective mindfulness in the experimental group (F=5.71, p<0.05). No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of perceived stress. However, when examining the interaction of time and group, a significant reduction in stress was observed in the experimental group (F=9.80, p<0.05). The FVC (Forced Vital Capacity) value demonstrated a significant effect in the interaction between time and group (F=6.02, p<0.05), although no significant difference was found between the groups. A significant improvement in FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second) was observed in the experimental group compared to the control group (F=12.41, p<0.05). This finding indicates a substantial effect in the experimental group after eight weeks, with a strong interaction between time and group (F=13.11, p<0.05). Additionally, a significant improvement in the FEV1/FVC ratio was observed, with time and group interaction showing a significant effect (F=6.02, p<0.05). The findings of this study suggest that breathing exercises contribute to improvements in cognitive mindfulness, perceived stress, and respiratory functions. The experimental group demonstrated significantly better outcomes than the control group. These results indicate that breathing exercises may serve as an effective intervention in rehabilitation processes and promote improvements in both mental and physical health. Keywords: Lung Capacity, Mindfulness, Breath, Stress