probably notAsthma is a chronic, long-term, lung disease which affects, inflames, and narrows the airways. It is characterized by recurring periods of wheezing, dyspnea, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
Asthma affects people from all walks of life and affects all ages but often starts in childhood. Although asthma is incurable, symptoms are manageable. People with asthma, if able to take good care of themselves, are able to live normal, active lives.
Does Yoga Really Help in Improving Asthma Conditions?
A recent study conducted at New York University School of Medicine/Bellevue Medical Center found that people with asthma who practiced Hatha yoga regularly (3x a week) for 10 weeks reported great improvements in asthma symptoms and in their quality of life while some even reported to have reduced their controller medications.
Research suggests that yoga could bring about the following:
- Increase lung capacity
- Improve muscle relaxation
- Counteract stress
- Improve overall physical fitness
- Trains asthmatics to be more aware of their breath, recognizing symptoms earlier
If you are asthmatic and would want to try out yoga, it is advisable for you to consult your doctor before going into a yoga routine. Then get a good instructor to create the right routine for you. Bronchodilators should always be at arm’s reach when you decide to practice yoga so keep your inhalers nearby.
