Suffering from asthma? Here are five Yoga poses for relief
Caused by genetic and environmental factors, asthma is a long-term respiratory disorder in which the airways of the lungs become swollen and inflamed. The condition is characterized by heavy breathing, coughing, tightness in chest, wheezing etc. Although working out could be a challenge for asthma patients, mild exercise is known to bring relief. Here are five Yoga poses to help you deal with asthma.
Sukhasana (Easy pose) helps you concentrate on your breathing, improves lung function, and also relaxes your mind. How to perform? Start by sitting down on floor/mat, with your back straight, and legs crossed. Now inhale deeply, and then exhale slowly, while focusing entirely on the breathing process throughout. Do this for about 5 to 10 minutes daily, to get relief from asthma.
Shavasana, also called the Corpse pose, is one of the most relaxing asanas in Yoga, which enhances your breathing process, and relieves asthma symptoms. To perform it, lay down straight on your back, with your arms freely opened on both sides, and palms facing upwards. Stay in the position, and focus on your natural breathing rhythm, to get relief from asthma.
To perform the Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge pose), lie down on your back, with your arms next to your body, palms facing down. Now, bend your knees and and place your feet on floor. Then, taking support of your shoulders, arms and feet, lift your back off the floor. Keep breathing slowly and deeply. Maintain the posture for one minute. Relax, then repeat.
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose), by stretching muscles in the chest, abdomen, and shoulders, enhances your blood circulation, breathing, and lung function. To perform this pose, lie down on your stomach, with your hands under your shoulders. Now, press down with your hands, and lift your upper body back, as far as possible. Hold the pose for five breaths. Relax, then repeat.
Pawanmuktasana (Wind relieving pose) regulates your breathing, thus reducing chances of asthma attacks. To perform this pose, lie down flat on your back. Cling your legs, fold your knees, and hug them. Now, lift your head off the floor and put your nose between the knees. Hold the pose for a few seconds as you breathe deeply, then release. Perform a few repetitions.
