New Delhi: A chronic condition of the respiratory system that affects over 300 million people globally every year is asthma, is often managed with medication and supportive medicine like yoga and naturopathy, since they provide preventive care. A lot of research has shown that natural approaches like yoga can play a major role in minimising and preventing symptoms of the condition. The principle that focuses here is mindful breathing. Dr Narendra K Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer, Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Center, listed the best techniques for asthma patients.
Yoga offers pranayama, a suite of breathing techniques that can help calm the nervous system, strengthen lung capacity, and reduce inflammation. Studies, including one published in the Journal of Asthma, show that pranayama can improve peak expiratory flow rate and reduce the frequency of attacks.
Best yoga techniques for asthma patients
Among the most effective techniques for asthma sufferers is Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing). This practice helps balance the autonomic nervous system and brings down cortisol levels, thereby reducing inflammation and allergic response triggers. Another powerful tool is Bhramari (bee breath), which induces a meditative vibration that soothes the respiratory system and relaxes the throat muscles, often constricted during an asthma attack. Also, Kapalabhati, a yogic kriya practice, helps clear the triggers from the upper respiratory tract.
In a 2012 randomised trial published in Chest, participants who practiced yoga-based breathing exercises for 12 weeks showed significant improvement in lung function and reduced dependency on rescue inhalers. Yoga also improves thoracic mobility; it increases the strength of the diaphragm, tightness in the chest can restrict breath, and regular asana practice opens the ribcage and increases the lung capacity.
Beyond the physical, asthma has a strong emotional component. Stress is also a major contributing factor to the asthma attack; often, holistic practices like yoga, when practiced regularly, can bring down the sympathetic nervous system and activate the parasympathetic activity.
While yoga is not a substitute for medication, it is a powerful complementary practice. For those living with asthma, a consistent routine that includes gentle asanas, breathwork, and mindfulness can be the difference between living reactively and breathing freely.
While yoga is not a substitute for medication, it is a powerful complementary practice. For those living with asthma, a consistent routine that includes gentle asanas, breathwork, and mindfulness can be the difference between living reactively and breathing freely. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
