4 Yoga Poses for Lung Health

It isn’t a coincidence that the word “Breathe” is something anyone says as soon as we are feeling nervous, scared, having a panic attack.  Learning how to control your breath isn’t always easy but studies have vouched for the many benefits of yoga and breathing provide to the  lungs and have underlined that the controlled breathing during Yoga can ease anxiety, promote relaxation and provide more oxygen to the blood stream.  

"Make a few simple changes in your lifestyle and habits, like keeping yourself hydrated, having nutritious diet and doing yoga for better lung health," says renowned Yoga guru Grand Master Akshar.

Let’s have a look at these 4 poses that are super beneficial for lung health.

1. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

Lie flat on your stomach with pointed toes, place your palms on the mat slightly outside your shoulders. Slowly press into your palms and start lifting your head and chest as you roll your shoulders back and down. Keep the back of your neck long and focus on lifting the sternum.  Keep the shoulders away from your ears and depending on how this pose feels you can straighten your arms.  Otherwise keep them slightly bent.

Benefits: This pose is believed to be therapeutic for asthma patients. It boosts blood circulation, helps relieve stress and strengthens the spine!

2. Matsyasana (Fish Pose)

Lie on your back and bring your legs together. Place your hands under your buttocks. Slowly lift your head and chest and breathe in, arch your back and place the crown of your head on the floor or if that is too strong, just lift your gaze to the ceiling. Use your elbows to help with the balance. Again, listen to your body, as you inhale and exhale opening the chest.

Benefits: This pose strengthens the lung muscles and reduces pressure in the neck and shoulders.  It also helps with better circulation of the blood.

3. Sukhasana (Cross-Legged Sitting Pose)

Come to a cross legged position.  Take a few breaths here as you lengthen the spine. Interlace your hands behind your back and continue to breath and you draw the shoulder blades together.  After a few breaths release your hands on an exhalation.

Benefits: This pose is very beneficial when it comes to the lungs. It washes out the harmful toxins as it stimulates the blood flow to lungs. It can also treat respiratory disorders.

4. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)

Starting from a mountain pose, step your feet 3 to 4 feet apart. Raise the arms parallel to the floor, shoulder height with the palms facing the floor. Tilt your left foot in slightly and point your right foot forward (to the top of the mat). Extend your torso towards your right leg, moving from the hip joint.  When you have reached as far as you feel comfortable to go, reach your right hand towards your shin, ankle or big toe and stretch the left arm towards the ceiling. Keep your neck long and in line with the spine and you can either look up at the ceiling or down to the floor.  Take a few breaths and repeat on the opposite side.

Benefits: This pose strengthens your core and allows for an easier air pathway to lungs. It also helps reduce anxiety and increases both mental and physical stability.

Which one of these poses is your favorite?