Did you know that asthma affects more than 363 million people worldwide? It also has a high mortality rate with 440,000 to 450,000 deaths recorded annually. What most people don’t know is that yoga can provide relief from this chronic condition.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the respiratory system. Its symptoms include wheezing, coughing, a feeling of ‘tightness’ in the chest and shortness of breath. Doctors believe that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
How Yoga Helps with Asthma
Yoga is an extremely effective remedy for asthma. It calms down the parasympathetic nervous systems, relaxes you and helps to improve breathing. Hence, gentle restorative yoga is often recommended to asthma patients.
7 Best Yoga Poses for Asthma Patients
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Bridge Pose
Other Names: Setu Bandhasana
Difficulty Level: Moderate (Intermediate Level)
The bridge pose, also called Setu Bandhasana, is challenging but also beneficial. It helps to stretch your respiratory muscles and allows your diaphragm to function effectively.
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Cobra Pose
Other Names: Bhujangasana
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Bhujangasana or the Cobra pose, offers multiple benefits. While most people associate this popular pose with digestion benefits, it helps to relieve tension from your shoulder and chest as well.
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Fish Pose
Other Names: Matsyasana
Difficulty Level: Easy
The fish pose, also known as Matsyasana, is one of the most beginner friendly asanas (poses) out there. This pose is known for opening up the lungs and the chest. It also improves your breathing.
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Triangle Pose
Other Names: Trikonasana
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
The triangle pose, or trikonasana is one of the best poses for Asthma patients. It expands your ribs and also improves the functioning of the lungs.
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Butterfly Pose
Other Name: Baddha Konasana
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
The butterfly pose, also known as Baddha Konasana, is very versatile. It improves flexibility, helps to relieve tension and alleviates anxiety (studies have found a link between anxiety and asthma).
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Easy Pose
Other Name: Sukhasana
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
The easy pose or Sukhasana is one of the foundational poses in yoga. It encourages diaphragmatic breathing, helps to reduce the triggers of asthma (anxiety, uneven heart rate) and boosts your posture.
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Seated Spinal Twist
Other Names: Ardha Matsyendrasana
Difficulty Level: Moderate (Intermediate Level)
The seated spinal twist, sometimes known as Ardha Matsyendrasana is another popular pose. It is detoxifying, helps to reduce stiffness, provides stress and expands your respiratory system.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is only for educational purposes. Kindly consult a medical or health specialist before making any fitness related choices
