WHAT IS ASTHMA?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes constriction of the bronchi and bronchioles, increasing mucus secretions resulting in difficulty breathing. The airways of the lungs narrow and swell. Other symptoms include chest tightness and pain, wheezing, shortness of breath, a persistent cough, and fatigue due to lack of oxygen. Asthma can be caused by an allergic reaction to environmental pollution or other allergens.
Yoga can help to increase breath and body awareness, slow your respiratory system, promote calm and relieve stress. Specific postures and breathing techniques can alter an over-stimulated mind, soothe the emotions and provide more confidence in helping people feel more in control of their breathing. In asthma sufferers, the body can be tense and shoulders hunched due to stress, so a regular yoga practice can help alleviate symptoms bringing the body back to its natural state. It is easy to panic when you have difficulty taking in air. I would encourage anyone struggling with this condition to focus on postures to open the chest promoting deep effective breathing which can help you fully enjoy your daily activities. If you have increased levels of stress there are many restful, quieting postures that are very soothing. Finding a meditation class is worth exploring to address anxiety. Many people with asthma do report feeling much calmer after a yoga class.
If you look online you can find great information regarding yoga and asthma. There are many teachers who have this condition and some have created wonderful support groups and classes. Depending on the severity of your breathing restrictions you may want to consult your doctor first. Start gently. Go online and google Yoga and Asthma. Find an experienced teacher and look forward to improved confidence in controlling and managing your condition.
CASE STUDY: Rosemary, Twickenham.
I have worked with Rosemary for many years and I am fully aware of how challenging living with asthma can be. It has always been a great joy hearing that my yoga classes have helped with Rosemary’s breathing difficulties and that the practice can be used as an effective tool to increase the air capacity in the lungs.
“My life has changed since attending yoga classes with Ann. It has made an enormous difference to my breathing as I suffer from asthma. Ann has tailor-made the sessions particularly to work on my chest and shoulders which has enabled me to breathe more deeply, increasing my flexibility and energy levels. The high-quality, sensitive teaching from Ann encourages people to work within their own limits and the instructions are always delivered in a positive way paying attention to detail. The benefits to each part of the body are explained and students are encouraged to correct positions. Over the years Ann’s classes have helped many of my friends and teaching colleagues who are stressed from working in challenging schools, to relax and feel better in body and mind. I feel very privileged to be taught by such a knowledgeable and special person.”
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