Yoga for better breathing: Top poses to boost your lung capacity

Beyond simply being relaxation techniques, yoga and pranayama (breathing exercises) are effective allies in preserving respiratory health. You may strengthen your lungs, improve your breathing ability, and lower your risk of asthma and bronchitis flare-ups by implementing these routines into your everyday routine. Frequent practice facilitates respiratory system relaxation, which makes breathing easier and enhances general health. This article examines

breathing exercises

and yoga poses that can help to revitalize and maintain your respiratory system.
According to Yogacharya Akhil Gore, founder, RouteIn Yoga, regular practice of these yoga poses and

pranayama techniques

can:
– Strengthen respiratory muscles

– Improve oxygen uptake
– Reduce inflammation in airways
– Decrease stress-induced breathing difficulties
– Enhance overall lung function
– Build respiratory endurance
Here are some effective Yoga Poses (Asanas) by Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga guru, Akshar yoga

1. Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

– Lies on back, lifts chest while supporting head
– Opens throat and chest areas
– Excellent for increasing

lung capacity
– Hold for 30-45 seconds

2. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)

– Lies face down, palms under shoulders

– Lifts chest while keeping lower body grounded
– Expands lungs and strengthens upper back
– Hold for 15-30 seconds

3. Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana)

– Alternates between arching and rounding spine
– Coordinates movement with breath
– Promotes respiratory flexibility
– Practice 5-10 cycles

4. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)

– Lies on back, knees bent, feet flat
– Lifts hips while keeping shoulders down
– Opens chest cavity and promotes deeper breathing
– Hold for 30-60 seconds

1. Single Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

– Sits in comfortable position
– Alternates breathing through left and right nostrils
– Balances respiratory system
– Practice for 5-7 minutes

2. Diaphragmatic Breathing

– Sit or lie comfortably
– Place one hand on chest, other on belly
– Breathe deeply into belly, feeling it expand
– Practice for 5-10 minutes

3. Bhastrika Pranayama

– Breathe in for equal duration into belly, ribs, and chest
– Releases for same duration, for example inhale for 4 counts, hold and exhale also for same duration
– Maximizes lung capacity
– Practice for 5 minutes

4. Bee Breath (Bhramari)

– Sits with eyes closed
– Creates humming sound on exhale
– Reduces anxiety and throat irritation
– Practice 5-10 rounds

Practice Guidelines:

1. Additional Tips
– Maintain consistent practice schedule
– Focus on smooth, steady breathing
– Stay hydrated before and after practice
1. Timing
– Best practiced in morning or evening
– Avoid immediately after meals
– Start with 15-20 minutes daily
3. Precautions
– Start gently and gradually increase duration
– Stop if experiencing difficulty breathing
– Consult healthcare provider before starting
4. Environment
– Choose clean, well-ventilated space
– Maintain comfortable temperature
– Use yoga mat or blanket for support
Keep in mind to pay attention to your body and adjust poses as necessary. Consult a certified yoga instructor who is knowledgeable about respiratory disorders if you suffer from severe bronchitis or asthma. For the best respiratory health, combine these measures with appropriate medical treatment and lifestyle management.