ASTHMA
What is Asthma?
Asthma is the condition where the air passages (from where air flows) in the lungs become inflamed. The air passages are the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. When the air passages get inflamed, it becomes red and swollen and it is difficult to breathe. This results in Coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and a tight feeling in the chest. Asthmatic attacks can be triggered by allergies, exercise, cold air, pollution and stress related disorders.
How a person gets Asthma?
There are several reasons
1. Air pollution, animal dung, cockroaches.
2. Respiratory infections such as cough cold
3. Over exercises that could trigger asthma.
4. Smoking – Active and passive
5. Weather
6. Some medicines side effects
7. Genetics
How Yoga helps to cure Asthma
Yoga asanas with its gentle stretches and poses help gain flexibility and strength. Pranayama helps to focus on proper breathing, which is an important part of all yoga exercises. It helps in breath control and helps one to stay calm during an asthma attack. The relaxation aspects in yoga help in calming the nerves. Hence, the practice of yoga helps to fight stress, reduce physical tension and muscle tightness. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system and feelings of well being are produced.
Best Pranayam and Asanas for Asthma
1. Bhastrika Anulom ( 50 - 100 times )
2.Anulom vilom and Ardh Anulom vilom pranayam ( 50 - 100 times )
3.Kapalbhati pranayam & Ardh Kapalbhati pranayam ( 50 - 100 times )
4. Savasana ( 10 - 15 mins everyday )
5. Kandrasana ( 10 - 15 times )
6. Poorvottanasana and Butterfly ( 10 - 20 times )
7.Walking for 20-30 minutes
Things to be taken in care
· Encase pillows, mattresses, with allergen-proof, zippered covers.
· Wash all bedding in hot water.
· Don't allow smoking in the house.
· Wear mask and gloves when cleaning, to limit dust exposure.
· Limit throw rugs in your home to reduce dust and mold.
· When possible, choose hardwood floors instead of carpeting.
Precautions:
1.Do not pratice any Asan OR Pranayam in which you don’t feel comfortable.
2.Do not over do the exercises if you feel pain in your body.
3.Start exercises mildly and then increase the repetitions as per your capacity.
4.People suffering from Back pain,Slip disc OR chronic disease should only practise Yoga and other exercises under the expert supervision otherwise do not do it.
5.Pregnant women should only practise Yoga and other exercises only under the supervision of an expert otherwise do not practise any exercise by watching videos or website material.