Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, the passage way that allow air to enter and leave the lungs. There are two types of asthma: Allergic (caused by exposure to an allergen) and Non-allergic (caused by stress, exercise, illnesses like a cold or flu, or exposure to extreme weather, irritants in the air or some medications). Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These episodes may occur a few times a day or a few times per week. Depending on the person, they may become worse at night or with exercise. Asthma can’t be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled.

Asthma Signs and Symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing or wheezing
• A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling (wheezing is a common sign of asthma in children).

Asthma Triggers:
Asthma triggers are different from person to person and can include:

• Airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, etc.,
• Respiratory infections, such as the common cold,
• Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma),
• Cold air,
• Air pollutants like smoke,
• Certain medications, including Beta blockers, Aspirin, Ibuprofen etc.,
• Tension and stress,
• Preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages.

Risk Factors:

• Having a blood relative with asthma
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Exposure to secondhand smoke
• Exposure to exhaust fumes or other types of pollution
• Exposure to occupational triggers like chemicals used in farming and factories.

Yogic Management for Asthma

Standing Asanas:

• Uttanasana

Supine Asanas:

• Pavanamuktasana
• Setu Bandhasana

Prone Asanas:

• Bhujangasana
• Dhanurasana

Seated Asanas:

• Sukhasana
• Upavistha Konasana
• Ushtrasana
• Adho Mukha Svanasana
• Ardha Matsyendrasana
• Purvottanasana

Pranayamas:

• Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
• Kapal Bhati Pranayama

Relaxation technics like Yoganidra meditation and simple Shavasana relaxes your entire body and mind.