Yoga And Asthma - Yoga tips and yoga poses for asthma
What is asthma? Asthma is one of the most common respiratory ailments. An asthma attack is caused due to the involuntary narrowing of the bronchial tubes. This narrowing makes it difficult for a person to breathe. While mild attacks are characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath, severe asthma attacks, if not treated in time, can prove fatal.
There are a number of triggers that can set off an asthma attack. These include anxiety, airborne pollutants or allergens, strenuous activity, or exposure to extreme heat or cold. There are number of over the counter medicines and inhalers that can be used to relieve an asthma attack, however, conventional medicine still does not offer a guaranteed cure for asthma. This is why many asthma patients have turned to alternative therapies and treatments in their quest for a cure for asthma.
Yoga and asthma. Yoga is one of the forms of alternative therapy that has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of asthma patients. This ancient Indian method of exercise not only helps to reduce the incidence of attacks, but can even affect a complete cure.
Yoga utilizes a number of physical exercises (Asanas) and breathing techniques (Pranayama). In addition, while performing the various stretches and postures that are such an important part of yoga, paramount importance is given to proper breathing and breath control. This emphasis on proper breathing is what makes yoga such an effective remedy against asthma.
Some of the yoga techniques that have been shown to have a beneficial effect on asthma patients include:
Anuloma Viloma: Anuloma Viloma or alternate nostril breathing is one of the most popular forms of Pranayama. This breathing technique is performed while seated in the Padma Asana (Lotus posture). Inhale deeply through one nostril while keeping the other nostril shut by placing your thumb over it. Now hold your breath. Then, slowly exhale from the other nostril, while shutting the nostril you inhaled from with your thumb. This powerful breathing technique clears the respiratory passage and strengthens the lungs.
Sukha Asana: The Sukha Asana, or Easy pose, is a seated yogic posture that is commonly used for meditation. This is another easy pose that allows the body to remain upright so that the chest cavity can expand fully. Performing Pranayama breathing while in the Sukha Asana helps to provide relief to asthma patients.
Shava Asana: The Shava Asana, or Corpse pose, is not as morbid as it sounds. This is another easy yoga posture in which you lie down flat on your back with your eyes closed. The Shava Asana allows you to focus on and relax the different parts of your body. This is an excellent pose to adopt when you feel the onset of an asthma attack as it allows you to relax the bronchial passages and prevent them from contracting.
