Recent studies have indicated significant enhancements in daytime alertness, overall sleep quality, and reductions in apnea paralysis index, suggesting that respiratory muscle training using blown shanks (conch) could become a novel approach for alleviating obstructive sleep apnea symptoms in the future.
Upper airway muscle training through shank blowing enhances subjective assessments of daytime drowsiness and sleep quality by improving objective indicators of obstructive sleep apnea severity. Image credit: Sharma et al., doi: 10.1183/23120541.00258-2025.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep due to airway obstructions.
This condition leads to excessive snoring, disrupted sleep patterns, and daytime fatigue, while also heightening the chances of hypertension, cardiovascular issues, and strokes.
Blowing the shell of a conch or shank has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries.
Recent research revealed that individuals with moderate OSA who engaged in shank blowing experienced improved sleep quality, greater daytime alertness, and fewer nighttime breathing disturbances.
Dr. Krishna Sharma, a researcher at the Eternal Heart Care Center and Research Institute in Jaipur, stated:
“The standard treatment for OSA involves a continuous airway pressure machine (CPAP), which keeps the airways open by delivering airflow through a face mask throughout the night.”
“While effective, many patients find it uncomfortable and struggle to adhere to its use.”
“In my clinical practice, several patients reported feeling more refreshed and experiencing fewer symptoms after regularly practicing shank blowing, a traditional yoga breathing technique that involves expelling air through the conch shell.”
“These insights prompted us to design scientific research to rigorously evaluate whether this ancient technique serves as a substantial treatment for those suffering from OSA.”
The study included 30 participants aged 19-65 diagnosed with moderate OSA, who were evaluated at the Eternal Heart Care Center and labs between May 2022 and January 2024.
Polysonography was utilized for assessment, where participants were monitored during sleep and questioned about their sleep quality and daytime alertness.
They were randomly assigned to either practice blowing conch shells (16 patients) or engage in deep breathing exercises (14 patients).
Participants were provided with traditional shanks used in yoga and received in-person training from the research team before commencing home practice.
They were encouraged to practice at home for at least 15 minutes, five days a week. After six months, participants were re-evaluated.
Those practicing shank blowing exhibited a 34% reduction in daytime sleepiness compared to those doing deep breathing exercises.
Additionally, they recorded higher blood oxygen levels during sleep.
“The technique of blowing the shank is distinct,” Dr. Sharma explained.
“It incorporates deep inhalation followed by a powerful, sustained exhalation through tightly pursed lips.”
“This method generates strong vibrations and airflow resistance, which can fortify the upper airway muscles, such as the throat and soft palate.
“The unique spiral design of the shanks may also create acoustic and mechanical effects that assist in stimulating and regulating these muscles.”
“For individuals living with OSA, particularly those who find CPAP uncomfortable, costly, or inaccessible, our findings present a promising alternative.”
“Shank blowing is a simple, low-cost breathing technique that can enhance sleep and mitigate symptoms without reliance on machines or medicine.”
study Published in ERJ Open Research.
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Krishna K. Sharma et al. 2025. Effectiveness of shank blowing on moderate sleep apnea: a randomized controlled trial. ERJ Open Research 00258-2025; doi:10.1183/23120541.00258-2025
Source: www.sci.news
