As the world battles with the contagious coronavirus, everyone is trying their best to follow proper precautions to keep the infection at bay. But the safety can be enhanced by following a healthy yogic and ayurvedic lifestyle.
According to Yoga, ‘breath’ is the ‘prana’ i.e It is a vital force for the survival of our body. As such, strengthening lung function has become extremely important to enhance breathing and maintain a balance between body and mind.
When breathing is not done properly it blocks the body channels that paves way for anomalies in the system. Yoga asanas have been found incredibly beneficial to strengthen lung functioning and boost oxygen intake. Let’s explore a few of them-
Anulom Vilom is a yoga practice used for controlled breathing that is said to have many benefits on our body. It is an effective way of increasing lung functioning by improving the respiratory system and clearing out nasal passage for smooth circulation of air.
According to a study, yoga techniques were found to improve lung functions besides improving cardiovascular functions and reducing anxiety levels.
Starting your day with this amazing pranayam can help relax your muscles, promote better sleep, and also reduce sinus inflammation. It can be practiced on an empty stomach before having meals.
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It is a standing strengthening asana that benefits the chest, abdomen, knees, thighs, lower back, shoulders, and neck. It increases the range of motion, muscular coordination, and circulation by stretching the whole body and improving the overall posture.
Those who have headache issues and low blood pressure should avoid this practice. Also, if you have a heart problem, the hand that goes up should remain on your waist. People with high blood pressure should gaze down instead of looking in front and ones with neck issues should avoid looking up but keep the neck equally elongated towards the front.
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This asana is a backward bend chest opening asana. When we perform this asana, our hands, shoulders, chest, belly, buttocks, and lungs get affected positively. Not only that it helps in improving the spine posture but also help strengthening your back.
People who have asthma, low energy levels, or suffer from sciatica should perform this yoga as it improves the lung capacity by expanding the rib cage that in turn improves blood circulation and removes fatigue from the body.
Those who have injured their back, have wrist problems (Carpal tunnel syndrome), and especially pregnant women should avoid this asana.
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Camel pose is a back-bending asana that loosens ups the vertebrae and stimulates the spinal nerves, relieving backache, rounded back, and dropping shoulders.
Those who have severe back ailments should not attempt this asana without the guidance of a competent teacher.
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Bridge pose is a very good restorative pose. This Back extension pose also helps relieve the hunch from poor posture and sitting, giving you more flexibility and mobility for daily activities. Â It helps open the chest for better breathing.
Avoid doing this pose if you are suffering from ulcers, hernia, neck and back injuries.
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Maintaining your lung health during this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic time is the best defense to fight the infection. One should not ignore the role it plays to keep us strong, especially when it comes to the distribution of oxygen in our body. 5% of the critical cases included severe lung damage and deaths because of the same! So, prioritize your lungs because they are keeping you alive. Also, if you are not feeling well, consult a doctor online as soon as possible to minimize uncertain risks.
Join the Yoga Corner on The Wellness Corner app and browse Wellness TV for an array of yoga sessions. Practice yoga with our wellness experts right at the comfort of your place. And it’s always a better idea to have a companion who keeps you motivated throughout your transformation journey towards a healthier body and serene mindset.