Asthma

Several studies have shown yoga to be a powerful adjunct therapy to reduce the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks as well as to decrease medication use. Consistent practice of yoga postures and pranayama (breathing exercises) increases the lung’s airflow, air capacity, stamina and efficiency.

Yoga Postures
Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
Calms the brain and rejuvenates tired legs.

Marjaryasana (Cat Pose )
This pose provides a gentle massage to the spine and belly organs.

Bitilasana (Cow Pose)
Cow Pose is an easy, gentle way to warm up the spine.

Dolphin Pose
A nice shoulder-opening. Also strengthens the core, arms, and legs.

Garudasana (Eagle Pose)
You need strength, flexibility, and endurance, and unwavering concentration.

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose)
This twist energizes the spine and stimulates the digestive fire.

Marichyasana III (Marichi's Pose)
Marichi's Pose is sometimes called the Sage's Pose.

Supta Virasana (Reclining Hero Pose)
Intensifies the stretch in the thighs and ankles of its upright version.

Sphinx Pose
Sphinx Pose is the infant of backbends. It can be practiced with either an active or passive approach.

Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
For this pose you can pad your knees and shins with a thickly folded blanket.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
This posture promotes flexibility in the spine and encourages the chest to open.

Dolphin Plank Pose
A modification of Plank Pose, Dolphin Plank Pose strengthens and tones the core, thighs, and arms.

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog)
One of the most widely recognized yoga poses... an all-over, rejuvenating stretch.

Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
Don't let the name fool you. If you're used to sitting in chairs, Sukhasana can be quite challenging.

Virasana (Hero Pose)
Virasana is a balm for tired legs at the end of the day, as well as an alternative to Lotus for seated meditation.

Pasasana (Noose Pose)
In the full pose the arms are wrapped around the squatting legs and the hands are clasped behind the back, forming a "noose."

Parivrtta Trikonasana (Revolved Triangle Pose)
Usually a counterpose to Trikonasana. Also a preparation for seated forward bends and twists.

Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
Uttanasana will wake up your hamstrings and soothe your mind.

Salamba Sirsasana (Supported Headstand)
Standing on your head in proper alignment calms the brain and strengthens the body.

Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow or Wheel Pose)
Strengthens the arms, legs, abdomen, and spine, and gives a boost of energy.

Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Salute)
Urdhva Hastasana literally translates to "Raised Hands Pose," but it is also sometimes called Talasana, the Palm Tree Pose (tala = palm tree).

Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand)
This version of Shoulderstand is performed with blanket support under the shoulders.

Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog)
Upward-Facing Dog will challenge you to lift and open your chest.


Pranayama
Pranayama cultivates the ability to maintain a relaxed and controlled breath that can prevent or reduce asthma attacks. Pranayama exercises should be practiced according to what usually triggers the asthma attacks. Dirga pranayama is for all conditions and will encourage slow deep breathing patterns. For stress and emotional upsets use Nadi Sodhana, for asthma triggered by cold air practice Ujjayi pranayama, and for allergic arthritis use Sit Cari or Shitali pranayamas. To help strengthen the lungs and reduce mucus congestion use Kapalabhati pranayama, practicing it very slowly and gently in short durations.

Meditation
Meditation reduces stress, calms the mind and helps relax the lungs and heal the body. Use one of the following by itself and/or at the beginning and end of your yoga practice: Yoga Meditation, Heart Chakra Meditation, Mantra Meditation.