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World Asthma Day 2023: The global event of World Asthma Day is celebrated on May 02 annually across the different parts of the world. World Asthma Day 2023 an annual event organised by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) which aims to improve asthma awareness and care for patients around the world. The day was founded in 1993 and is organised by GINA to spread awareness about Asthma globally. The World Health Organisation states that asthma affected an estimated 262 million people in 2019 and caused 455 000 deaths.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a long-term condition affecting children and adults. The air passages in the lungs become narrow due to inflammation and tightening of the muscles around the small airways. This causes asthma symptoms such as cough, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness, states WHO. 

Yoga For Asthma

Healthline states that around 300 million people in the world have asthma, a chronic inflammatory disorder. Yoga is often recommended for controlling asthma symptoms and easing the condition. Therefore, here are some easy-to-try yoga asanas to help in easing symptoms. Before trying, please consult your doctor. 

1. Pursed Lip Breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a technique that allows people to control their oxygenation and ventilation. The technique requires a person to breathe through the nose and exhale through the mouth at a slow controlled flow, as per the National Institute of Health (NIH). 

2. Diaphragmatic Breathing

It is a breathing exercise that helps in strengthening your diaphragm, an important muscle that enables you to breathe. According to Healthline, this breathing technique reduces this effort by opening the airways, strengthening your abdominal muscles, and increasing your lung and heart function. This exercise may help soothe your asthma symptoms.

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3. Buteyko Breathing

It is a type of breathing exercise that teaches you to breathe more gently and less rapidly. It emphasises the importance of nasal breathing and is a breathing therapy, that technically originated in Russia. Healthline suggests simple ways to practise this exercise.

Take a small breath and hold for 3 to 5 seconds. Repeat several times.

Exhale through your nose.

Pinch your nose with your pointer finger and thumb.

Hold your breath for 3 to 5 seconds.

Breathe for 10 seconds. Repeat if your symptoms continue.

4. Bridge Pose

Also known as Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, this is a reclined and chest-opening yoga pose. It also encourages deeper breathing. 

Lie on your back. Place your feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent. Place your hands on the floor, palms facing down. Inhale and move your pelvis up, keeping your shoulders and head flat. Take a few deep breaths. Slowly lower your pelvis to the floor.

5. Cobra Pose

Also known as Bhujangasana, the cobra pose is a heart-opening backbend yoga asana that allows you to stretch your entire upper body. It helps in expanding your chest muscles and promotes blood circulation, which enhances better breathing.