In a world obsessed with cutting-edge fitness trends and high-tech wellness gadgets, an ancient practice is making a surprising comeback: conch blowing, or shankhnaad. Once reserved for religious rituals and battlefield announcements, this age-old tradition is now being embraced as a potential tool for respiratory strength and overall well-being. But is it just a passing fad, or does science support its supposed benefits?
Picture this: a deep breath in, followed by a powerful exhale through a beautifully spiralled conch shell. The sound that emerges is not just a mere echo of ancient traditions but, as some suggest, a therapeutic wave that could enhance lung function, improve focus and even reduce stress. With the resurgence of breathwork techniques in fitness and meditation circles, conch blowing is now being explored as more than just a spiritual exercise—it’s being hailed as a workout for the lungs, diaphragm, and mind.
The Power of ‘Shankhnaad’: How Actor Vidyut Jammwal Revived An Ancient Practice
“This can resolve 99.99 per cent of the problems,” declared action star Vidyut Jammwal, known for his high-intensity stunts in the Commando film series, as he passionately demonstrated the art of conch blowing at the Action Hero Fitness Awards 2024. His words carried conviction, and so did his powerful breathwork, as he showcased the practice on stage.
On January 1, 2025, Jammwal further fueled curiosity by sharing an Instagram post where he was seen blowing a conch, reinforcing his belief in its effectiveness.
Jammwal’s endorsement has sparked fresh interest in this long-overlooked tradition. His dedication to martial arts and extreme fitness regimens has made him a credible voice in the wellness community. But he isn’t alone in recognising the potential of shankhnaad as a fitness practice.
The Science Behind Conch Blowing: A Respiratory Workout?
Fitness experts and traditional martial artists are now reevaluating the mechanics behind conch blowing. It’s not as simple as just exhaling air into a shell—it demands controlled breathing, lung power, and precise diaphragm engagement. Arpit Singh, founder of Natural Shankh by Kalari Warriors and a mixed martial arts practitioner, has been advocating its benefits since 2012.
“During my kalari training, I realised the immense physical benefits of controlled breathwork and how it can be achieved through conch blowing. I saw it as a tool to build lung capacity and strengthen the diaphragm,” Singh explained to The Indian Express. Through his structured workshops, he takes participants through the biomechanics of the practice, explaining how it enhances respiratory strength and blood circulation. “I ensure that the workshops are structured as fitness-oriented sessions rather than religious or spiritual gatherings,” he added, ensuring a neutral and inclusive approach.
The Healing Power of Sound: What Research Says
Beyond its physical benefits, conch blowing is also believed to influence the mind and emotions. Sound therapy has long been studied for its effects on mental well-being, and conch resonance is now under scientific scrutiny.
According to the Research And Scientific Innovation Society (RSIS), the sound waves produced by a conch shell can stimulate positive psychological vibrations, leading to improved focus and relaxation. Some studies even propose that these sound frequencies can aid in reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia. One such study analysed the impact of conch shell vibrations on brain waves using EEG (Electroencephalogram) data. Researchers recorded and processed brain wave activity before and after exposure to conch sounds, finding that the frequencies induced a meditative state comparable to the effects of mindfulness practices.
Furthermore, proponents of conch therapy argue that the vibrations may have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. By engaging in this breath-based activity, individuals could potentially experience improved lung capacity, better oxygen circulation, and reduced hypertension.