Yoga focuses on breath control, which can significantly improve lung function. Techniques like deep breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and alternate nostril breathing help expand lung capacity and strengthen respiratory health, leading to better oxygen exchange and carbon dioxide removal.

Yoga poses such as cobra pose (Bhujangasana), bridge pose (Setu Bandhasana), and fish pose (Matsyasana) strengthen the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. Stronger respiratory muscles increase lung efficiency.

Poor posture restricts lung expansion and reduces respiratory function. Yoga helps correct postural imbalances by promoting alignment and body awareness. Warrior poses (Virabhadrasana) encourage proper spinal alignment, allowing for better air circulation in the lungs.

Chronic stress exacerbates respiratory illnesses and impairs lung function. Practicing yoga promotes relaxation and stress reduction. Techniques like meditation and deep breathing benefit both mental and respiratory health.

Yoga helps with relaxation and improves lung function. Image generated by AI

Yoga helps with relaxation and improves lung function. Image generated by AI

Certain yoga poses encourage stretching and expansion of the chest and rib cage, increasing lung flexibility and capacity. Specifically, camel pose, bow pose, and cow pose encourage deep breaths and full lung expansion.

Yoga exercises focused on controlled breathing promote oxygen circulation throughout the body. Increased oxygen supports overall respiratory health, provides energy, and reduces symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Yoga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, activating the body’s relaxation response and thereby alleviating symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Regular yoga practice strengthens the immune system, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and other illnesses. Increased resistance can prevent flare-ups of respiratory conditions and promote faster recovery from respiratory-related illnesses.

Maintaining a daily yoga practice helps individuals develop healthy habits. Those who are quitting smoking can practice yoga to cleanse their airways and overcome cravings.

When practicing yoga, individuals should listen to their bodies, focus on their breath, perform the movements correctly, choose a suitable practice space and attire, and maintain a balanced diet.

Le Nguyen (According to Hindustan Times)