These Are the Benefits of Yoga as Therapy for Respiratory Problems

Respiratory problems are often a health issue that reduces a person's quality of life. From asthma and bronchitis to shortness of breath due to stress, all require appropriate and sustainable solutions.

One natural method that has been proven helpful is yoga . This practice is not just exercise, but also a holistic therapy that involves breathing, meditation, and body movement to address various respiratory issues.

Benefits of Yoga for Respiratory Problems

Yoga has long been recognized as a holistic practice that combines body, mind, and breath. In the context of breathwork therapy, yoga helps by:

1. Increase Lung Capacity
   Breathing techniques in yoga, such as Pranayama , train the lungs to work more efficiently.
2. Reducing Stress That Triggers Shortness of Breath
   Stress often exacerbates respiratory problems. Yoga helps calm the nervous system and reduce the body's response to stress.
3. Increase Body Oxygenation
   Correct breathing in yoga ensures sufficient oxygen to the body's organs, thereby improving the functioning of vital organs.
4. Reducing Asthma Symptoms
   Several studies have shown that regular yoga practice can reduce asthma attacks and dependence on certain medications.

Effective Yoga Breathing Techniques

Breathing is at the heart of yoga, and there are several techniques that have been proven to help with breathing problems.

1. Pranayama

This technique involves regulating breathing to improve lung function. Some types of pranayama that are effective for respiratory therapy include:

• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
  This technique helps calm the mind and increase oxygen flow.
  How to do it:
• Sit comfortably on a yoga mat .
• Close the right nostril with your thumb, inhale through the left nostril.
• Close the left nostril with your ring finger, exhale through the right nostril.
• Repeat for 5–10 minutes.
• Kapalabhati (Rapid Abdominal Breathing)
  Focus on fast, forceful breathing to clear the airways.
  How to do it:
• Sit up straight, take a deep breath.
• Exhale quickly while pulling your abdominal muscles in.
• Do it in short sessions of 1 minute.

2. Bhramari (Bee Breathing)

Bhramari involves making bee-like sounds to calm the mind and improve the quality of breathing.
How to do it:

• Close your eyes and ears using your fingers.
• Take a deep breath, then exhale while humming the sound “mmm”.
• Repeat 5–7 times.

Yoga Poses to Help Breathing

Poses or asanas in yoga also have an important role in increasing lung capacity and improving oxygen circulation.

1. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

This pose helps open the chest, increasing airflow to the lungs.
How to do it:

• Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders.
• Lift your chest slowly while taking a deep breath.
• Hold for 15–30 seconds, then exhale as you return to the starting position.

2. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

This pose improves air circulation and reduces tension in the chest.
How to do it:

• Lie on your back with your knees bent.
• Lift your hips up while inhaling.
• Hold for a few seconds, then exhale and return to the starting position.

3. Balasana (Child's Pose)

Balasana helps calm the mind and improve breathing.
How to do it:

• Sit on your heels, then bend your body forward until your forehead touches the floor.
• Place your arms at your sides or in front.
• Take a slow breath in and a deep breath out.

The Importance of Consistency in Practicing Yoga

One of the keys to successful yoga therapy for respiratory problems is consistency . Practicing yoga regularly, at least 3–4 times a week, will yield significant results. You don't need to spend hours; just 20–30 minutes of daily practice is enough.

Things to Consider Before Starting Yoga

Before starting yoga as therapy, it is important to pay attention to the following things:

1. Consultation with a Doctor
   If you have chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, be sure to consult your doctor before starting.
2. Choose an Experienced Yoga Instructor
   A trained instructor can help you perform poses and techniques correctly.
3. Starting from Basic Level
   Don't try complicated movements right away. Focus on breathing techniques and basic poses.

Yoga isn't just a physical activity, it's also a holistic solution for respiratory issues. With breathing techniques like pranayama and poses like Bhujangasana, you can increase lung capacity, reduce stress, and improve your quality of life.

Consistent yoga practice can help you better cope with various health challenges.