3 yoga techniques to manage COPD and promote lung health | XpertsReviews.com

Difficulty breathing can lead to serious health problems, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD includes progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, which make daily life difficult. This condition results from inflammation of the lungs that restricts airflow, leading to common symptoms including shortness of breath, increased mucus production, wheezing, and coughing. Yoga can be a great exercise option for people with COPD because it can be adapted to different fitness levels. It helps strengthen the lungs and improves breathing and oxygen delivery.

Which yoga is good for COPD patients?

1. Siddha Abhyas

Siddha Abhyaas is an ancient Himalayan practice that focuses on breath, movement and mindfulness. It helps improve the respiratory system and promotes mental well-being. This gentle and effective technique aims to balance the flow of prana, the life force, through small energy pathways called nadis.

How it works:

Siddha Abhyaas helps strengthen the connection between your body and your breath. Regular practice can improve the flexibility of your lungs and the control of your diaphragm, making it easier to breathe smoothly and evenly. “This technique can be helpful with stress and anxiety, which is common among many people with chronic illnesses,” Spiritual Yogic Master Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar tells Health Shots. Siddha Abhyaas can be a basic practice. It promotes a feeling of calm and energy, supporting your long-term respiratory health and emotional balance.

To start:

1. Find a comfortable space: Sit or stand up straight. Keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed.
2. Focus on breathing: Close your eyes and breathe naturally. “With each inhale, imagine energy filling your body,” says the yoga expert. With each exhale, release any tension.
3. Incorporate gentle movements: Move your arms and torso in a simple way that suits your breathing. This will help you pay attention to how your breath fills your lungs.

Expert tip: By regularly practicing Siddha Abhyaas, people with COPD can improve their breathing and experience better mental clarity.

2. Dwikhand Pranayama?

Dwikhand Pranayama, or two-part breathing, is a useful technique for people with COPD. It divides breathing into two stages, making it easier to control and deepen your breathing.

Benefits:

Many people with COPD have difficulty fully expelling air from their lungs or taking in enough oxygen. “Dwikhand Pranayama helps by encouraging better breathing habits, which improve oxygen exchange and develop endurance over time,” says Akshar. Additionally, this practice helps reduce anxiety, leaving practitioners calm and relaxed.

How to practice:

1. Initial preparation: Sit comfortably with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. It helps to place your hands on your knees.
2. Inhale carefully: Inhale slowly, then pause for a moment. Feel the fullness of your breath in your body.
3. Finish the inspiration: Inhale deeply and fill your lungs. “Then exhale slowly, breaking it into segments,” shares the expert. Be sure to pause after exhaling halfway.
4. Repeat: Try to complete 5 to 10 cycles. Pay attention to any changes in your body or breathing patterns.

Expert tip: With regular practice, Dwikhand Pranayama can improve lung capacity and promote a calm, stress-free mind.

3. Vayusthiti Asana?

Vayusthiti Asana, also known as Overhead Balance Pose, is a simple standing pose that helps improve lung capacity and balance. It increases awareness of how the body is positioned and emphasizes deep, diaphragmatic breathing.

Posture and impact:

Vayusthiti Asana is a simple pose that helps open your chest and airways. “This allows more air to be sucked in,” explains the expert. It also strengthens the back and side muscles, which are important for healthy breathing.

Steps to perform:

1. Stand up straight: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Let your arms hang freely at your sides.
2. Connection to breathing: Inhale deeply. Raise your hands and place them on your rib cage. Feel your ribs expand as your lungs fill with air.
3. Exhale with intention: As you exhale, focus on relaxing your shoulders and releasing any tension in your upper body.

Expert tip: Incorporating Vayusthiti Asana into your daily routine can improve your posture and facilitate easier breathing.