<b>COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF WIM HOFF METHOD AND BOX BREATHING ON ANXIETY, DYSPNEA AND PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST IN MILD COPD</b>

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition that causes airflow limitation, leading to symptoms such as dyspnea, chronic cough, and anxiety. COPD significantly affects patients’ quality of life, with anxiety and breathlessness often exacerbating the disease’s impact.   Objective: To determine the effects of the Wim Hof Method and Box Breathing on anxiety, dyspnea, and pulmonary function (PEFR and FEV1) in patients with mild COPD, assessing which method offers greater benefits in managing these symptoms. Methodology: A randomized clinical trial was conducted with 60 participants diagnosed with mild COPD. Participants were assigned to either the Wim Hof Method group or the Box Breathing group. Over 8 weeks, both groups practiced their respective breathing techniques, and assessments of anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory), dyspnea (Borg Dyspnea Scale), and pulmonary function (PEFR and FEV1) were performed pre- and post-treatment. Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney U tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: Both techniques significantly improved pulmonary function, reduced anxiety, and alleviated dyspnea. The Wim Hof Method group showed a slightly greater reduction in anxiety compared to Box Breathing. However, both techniques resulted in significant improvements in respiratory function and perceived breathlessness, with no major differences in lung function between the two groups. Conclusion: Both the Wim Hof Method and Box Breathing were effective in managing COPD symptoms, significantly improving pulmonary function, reducing anxiety, and alleviating dyspnea. These findings suggest that controlled breathing techniques can serve as valuable, non-pharmacological interventions in COPD care.