| Yoga
Rx for Asthma
Asthma
is a chronic condition effecting over 20 million Americans
that causes acute attacks of coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness.
Modern medicine has no cure for this disease and 90 percent
of asthmatics rely upon pharmaceuticals to prevent and relieve
symptoms. The symptoms of asthma are created by a narrowing
of the lung’s airways that become further constricted
by an increase of mucus and inflammation in their lining.
Asthma can be triggered by allergies, exercise, cold air,
pollution and stress.
Several studies have shown yoga to be a powerful adjunct therapy
to reduce the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks as
well as to decrease medication use. Consistent practice of
yoga postures
and pranayama (breathing exercises) increases the lung’s
airflow, air capacity, stamina and efficiency. Back bending
postures open the chest improving both lung and heart functioning.
Practice upper back bends and chest opening postures if it
is harder to exhale during asthma attacks. Practice forward
bends and lower back bending poses if it is more difficult
to inhale. Inverted postures drain excess mucus from the lungs
and balance the immune system. A general yoga practice reduces
stress, physical tension, and muscle tightness and increases
overall feelings of well being by activating the parasympathetic
nervous system.
Pranayama cultivates the ability to maintain a relaxed and
controlled breath that can prevent or reduce asthma attacks.
Pranayama
exercises should be practiced according to what usually triggers
the asthma attacks. Dirga pranayama is for all conditions
and will encourage slow deep breathing patterns. For stress
and emotional upsets use Nadi Sodhana, for asthma triggered
by cold air practice Ujjayi pranayama, and for allergic arthritis
use Sit Cari or Shitali pranayamas. To help strengthen the
lungs and reduce mucus congestion use Kapalabhati pranayama,
practicing it very slowly and gently in short durations.
Yoga is not a substitute for conventional western medication;
please consult your medical professional before starting a
yoga practice.
On our Membership Site: Yoga therapy resource
guide for Asthma.
Yoga sequence for opening and strengthening the heart
and chest.
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