Yoga is a form of exercise that incorporates the mind and body together. You need to hold poses in isometric contractions for a specified amount of time. This type of exercise can improve your balance, your posture and your flexibility. One other aspect of yoga is the effect it has on the lungs, and there are several exercises that can be done to help them.
Cat
The cat pose also goes by the name "Marjaryasana." To do this pose, come onto all fours. Place your hands right under your shoulders with your arms straight, your knees straight down from your hips and your back straight. This is called a "neutral" position. Keep your gaze fixed downward, take a deep breath, exhale and round your spine. As you inhale, come back to a neutral position, then alternate back and forth with each breath. Do 10 to 12 repetitions total. For every exercise, breath in deeply through your nose and fill up your lungs with air.
Cow
A cow pose is also called "Bitilasana." Start out on all fours just like the cat pose and inhale and as you do. Let your belly sink toward the floor as you simultaneously lift your chest and butt towards the ceiling. Your back should be rounded. Exhale and come back to a neutral spine position with your back straight, then continue alternating with each breath. Do 10 to 12 repetitions total.
Locust
The locust pose is also called "Salambhasana." Lie on the floor with your arms down by your sides, your palms facing up and your forehead down. Exhale and simultaneously lift your upper body and lower body until you are resting on your pelvis, belly and ribs. Hold for 45 to 60 seconds, then slowly release. Do four to six reps total. You can place a towel or extra padding on the floor for your pelvis to rest on if you feel discomfort.
Staff
The staff pose also goes by the name "Dandasana." Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you and together. Place your arms straight down by your sides with your hands on the floor and fingertips forward. Flex your feet so they are facing back toward you and root your legs into the ground by contracting your thigh muscles. Make sure your back and arms are completely straight and hold for 45 to 60 seconds. Relax, then do this again four to six times. To practice getting perfect alignment, sit up against a wall.
Upward Facing Dog
An upward facing dog is also called "Urdhva Mukha Svanasana." Lie face-down with the tops of your feet flat on the floor. Place your hands by your shoulders and lift your upper body off the floor. Act as if you were going to drag your body across the floor with your hands. Straighten your arms and keep them tight against your sides and lift your thighs slightly off the floor. Your hands should be facing forward, and you should be on the tops of your feet. Keep your ribs puffed forward and your shoulders pinching inward. Hold this pose for 45 to 60 seconds, relax and do it four to six times total.
Bridge
A bridge pose also goes by the name "Setu Bandha Sarvangasana." Lie on your back with your knees bent and your heels as close to your glutes as possible. Lift your hips up in the air and clasp your fingers together underneath your body. Press your weight into your arms and shoulders and get your thighs parallel to the floor. Hold for 45 to 60 seconds then release and relax for a few breaths. Repeat the pose four to six times total.
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