
Asthma, Anxiety or Shallow Breathing? Try These 5 Yoga Guru Approved Asanas Now (Image Credits: iStock)
We breathe every moment, but how often do we actually pay attention to it? Breathing might be automatic, but conscious breathing is a game-changer—and one that could seriously benefit your lung and respiratory health. According to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, renowned yoga and spiritual leader, and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, breathing is far more than a biological function. It's our life force, the fuel behind every action, thought, and emotion.
“Each breath gives us life energy and supports every organ and system in our body,” he shares. “But many of us breathe unconsciously, and our breath becomes shallow. Through yoga, we can learn to breathe mindfully and deeply.”
Why Should You Care About Your Breathing?
With today’s lifestyle—pollution, stress, sedentary habits—our lungs are constantly under pressure. We often don’t realize it until we find ourselves gasping after a few flights of stairs or waking up feeling exhausted. That’s where yoga steps in to support and strengthen the lungs naturally.
Siddhaa Akshar explains that a regular yoga practice helps expand lung capacity, improves blood circulation, and encourages deeper, more efficient breathing. It’s like giving your lungs a workout without the sweat.
Ways To Strengthen Your Lungs With Yoga:
1. Swas Dhyaan (Breath Awareness Meditation)
In this simple practice, you sit upright with one hand on your chest and the other on your diaphragm. Without altering the breath, you just observe it. “This kind of awareness trains the body to breathe more deeply and more consciously,” Akshar explains.
2. Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)
This calming breathing technique involves gently placing the fingertips on specific energy points on the face and producing a soft humming sound.
“It’s excellent for reducing stress and improving airflow in the nasal passages,” Akshar says. “It also boosts the body’s feel-good hormones and improves respiratory focus.”
3. Yoga to Manage Stress and Improve Breathing
When you're stressed, your breathing naturally becomes shallow, and your oxygen supply is restricted. According to Siddhaa Akshar, yoga acts as a buffer. “It keeps your body calm and mind centred. A relaxed mind leads to better respiratory rhythm,” he notes.
4. Yoga for Respiratory Disorders
For people with asthma, bronchitis, or COPD, Akshar explains that consistent yoga and pranayama can make a noticeable difference. “It strengthens the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and helps improve sleep, energy, and overall lung function,” he adds.
5. Poses to Open Up the Lungs
Some postures are particularly effective in clearing congestion and improving oxygen flow. Akshar recommends trying Cobra Pose, Camel Pose, Bow Pose, and Seated Twists. “These are chest openers that activate respiratory muscles and encourage a full, deep breath,” he explains.
Breathing better isn’t just about lung health—it’s about living better. Yoga offers a holistic path to not only strengthen your respiratory system but also bring more vitality, peace, and clarity into your life. “Your breath is your power,” Akshar concludes. “Use it well, and it will support you in every aspect of your life.”
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.