Overview

Prolonged sedentary behavior and sustained static postures in modern lifestyles induce musculoskeletal stress, restrict thoracic mobility, and impair diaphragmatic excursion, which can alter postural control, increase dyspnea perception, and affect psychological well-being even in healthy adults. Although breathing exercises are accessible, cost-effective, and non-invasive interventions known to improve ventilatory efficiency, autonomic regulation, and core stabilization, their multidimensional impacts in healthy populations remain underexplored. Most existing literature focuses on isolated outcomes or clinical cohorts.

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the comprehensive effects of structured breathing exercises (diaphragmatic breathing and thoracic expansion exercises) in healthy adults. Specifically, the study investigates changes in pain intensity, dyspnea severity, postural alignment, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and body awareness, providing empirical evidence for the role of breathing interventions in preventive physiotherapy and public health.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

The inclusion criteria were being aged 18 years or older, having no physical condition that could interfere with participation in the breathing exercise program, having no history of regular participation in breathing exercises, yoga, Pilates, or posture-oriented exercise programs within the preceding 6 months, and providing written informed consent prior to enrollment.

Exclusion Criteria: clinically diagnosed chronic respiratory disease (e.g., COPD or asthma), a history of thoracic, spinal, or upper extremity surgery within the preceding 6 months, or current pregnancy.