Yoga for Asthma

The breathlessness experienced by asthma sufferers can be relieved by a yoga practice which strengthens the lungs and the muscles which support breathing.

To prepare the lungs and open the breath, begin with Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing).

Urdhra Tadasana

• Stand with feet hip-width apart and hands to either side.
• Inhale and raise your arms to the ceiling.
• Spread the fingers towards the sky as you raise yourself on your toes.
• Stay up for a second or two, holding your breath as you do so, then exhale and return your arms to your sides as your heels return to the floor.

Repeat several times.

Triyaktadasana

• Stand with feet hip-width apart. Reach your arms in front of you and clasp your fingers together.
• On an inhale push your palms out and up above your head.
• Exhale as you release your upper body to the left, making a crescent shape with your body. Stay here for one breath cycle, then return to center on an inhale.
• Exhale your upper body to the right, remaining in this position for one full breath cycle.
• Return to center and repeat the exercise on each side. Ensure that your body does not lean forward or backward during this pose.

Bhujangasana—Cobra Pose

• Come to lie on your stomach with your hands by your side near your shoulders and the tops of your feet resting on the floor.
• Inhale as you press into the floor with your feet and hands.
• Exhale and begin to lift your head and upper body off the mat.
• Inhale, then release to the ground on the exhale.

Repeat cobra pose 3 times.

Dhanurasana-Bow Position

• Lie on your stomach with your hands by your side.
• Bend your knees and grab the ankles or the outside of the feet.