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.