Background: Pranayama is a traditional yogic breathing practice involving conscious regulation of breathing patterns. It has gained increasing research interest for its potential effects on autonomic regulation, cardiovascular function, and psychological well-being.

Objective: This review aims to examine the role of Pranayama in modulating the autonomic nervous system and to summarize its reported effects on cardiovascular and psychological outcomes.

Methods: Relevant research studies, randomized controlled trials, and systematic reviews investigating Pranayama, heart rate, blood pressure, heart rate variability, autonomic function, stress, anxiety, and related psychological outcomes were reviewed.

Results: Available evidence suggests that Pranayama may improve heart rate variability and parasympathetic activity while reducing heart rate and blood pressure. Beneficial effects have also been reported for stress, anxiety, emotional well-being, and overall psychological health.

Conclusion: Pranayama appears to be a promising complementary approach for promoting autonomic balance and supporting cardiovascular and psychological well-being. However, standardized protocols and larger long-term studies are needed to establish its clinical effectiveness more conclusively.