Asthma is a condition which sensitive airways to the lungs can become inflamed due to a number of triggers such as allergens, colds, flu, and even exercise. When a trigger occurs, the air passages begin to swell and the muscles tighten which makes is very hard to breath. People with asthma often have the following symptoms when it strikes.
- Wheezing
- Breathlessness
- Tightening of the Chest
- Persistent Cough & More
The symptoms of asthma can change over time and vary from person to person in terms of the severity and types of triggers that cause a reaction. It is for these reasons that many people avoid most exercise programs because they do not want to trigger a bout of asthma.
However, there is one form of exercise that may actually provide benefits to those suffering from asthma and even help them to breathe a little easier.
The Benefits of Yoga
Yoga is a form of exercise and meditation that goes back many centuries. Today, it is has morphed into numerous forms which provide a wide range of benefits for many people, including those who suffer from asthma attacks. In this sense, yoga runs contrary to being a trigger for asthma. This may be due to the fact that most yoga exercises are slower, more deliberate, and do not require a quick reaction from the body.
There are a number of popular yoga positions that you can use to help improve the body and even have a positive effect on your breathing. They include, but are not limited to the following;
- Downward Dog
- Half Lord of the Fishes or Half Frog
- Eight-Angle
Although there have not been any long term studies over the effects that yoga has on those with asthma, research on the short term benefits does show that engaging in the right yoga exercises does have a positive impact for those with asthma. Plus, it provides excellent conditioning for the body those who have been avoiding exercise in the past.
While exercise can trigger the effects of asthma, when you take your medications in the proper manner yoga in particular can be performed without causing the symptoms to arise. You may want to consult with your doctor first and keep in mind that regular exercise is good for your physical wellbeing along with managing the symptoms of asthma.
How to Incorporate Yoga into Your Life
For those who have asthma, bringing the benefits of yoga into your life must include the following;
- Always Carry Your Reliever Medication at All Times
- Take Your Medication as Prescribed, Even When Feeling Sick or Ill
- Inform Your Physical Trainer or Fitness Instructor that You Have Asthma
- Carry a Copy of Your Asthma Action Plan at All Times
- Consult with Your Doctor Before Starting a Yoga Program
By following all of these steps, you can start a simple yoga program that provides benefits to your mind and body. Plus, in case an asthma attack strikes others around you will know what to do when it occurs.
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