Yoga in Management of Bronchial Asthma

Yoga in management of Bronchial Asthma has proven itself very effective.



For this reason Yoga therapy is being considered more and more in the treatment of Bronchial Asthma. The two aspects to be considered her are:

• Provide immediate relief from an attack subsequent to a broncho-spasm that leads to respiratory distress; and
• Avoid further attacks.
  

Through its calming down influence on the whole nervous system, Yoga therapy aims at reducing the overall activity of the human organism. It, thereby, succeeds in slowing down the functioning of all the organs of the body.





In the autonomic nervous system too, Yoga therapy helps slow down the activity. This it succeeds in doing in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic. Due to this effect Yoga therapy is considered the new age answer to many stress related diseases that mainly involve more autonomic nervous activity.





As a result of Yoga therapy’s fantastic efficacy as a broncho-dilator and the psychological feeling of well being it produces, sufferers tend to reduce the use of regular medicines. Cortisones are very effective as bronchodilators due to their manifold action, but just as dangerous if used for over 2 weeks.

Rules to be followed for efficient management of Bronchial Asthma:

• Use the minimum medication only for the required period.
• Avoid cortisones; even if extremely necessary. If used, never use them regularly for over a week
• Inhalers are far better than pills since they operate only locally.
• Decrease and stop medicines with Yoga therapy.

Yoga therapy for Bronchial Asthma – Shashankasana in 3 stages:

• First, be seated in Vajrasana and hold your right wrist with your left hand, behind your back. Then bend forward and backward from the waist. Do this five times.
• Next, synchronize your breath with your forward and backward movements. As you inhale bend backwards. As you exhale bend forward. Do this also five times
• Chant “Mmmmmm” in a low tone as you bend forward.