There are numerous yoga exercises that help expand lung capacity for intake of more oxygen. An integral part of yoga is connecting to the breath while taking certain poses. "Yoga Journal" reports that yoga can help increase flexibility of the rib area, back and shoulders, which increases lung capacity. Breath work also helps to condition the diaphragm and oxygenate the blood.
Standing Poses
When beginning a yoga practice, it is important to connect to the breath with each pose. Practice equal breathing, or samavritti, which means taking full and equal inhalations and exhalations. Padangusthasana, or big toe pose, starts in a standing position with legs hip-width apart. Bend down to touch your toes and hold your big toes with your hands. Bend your knees, if needed. You can also try Utthita Parsvakonasana, or extended side angle pose. Do this by spreading your legs wide while standing and bending one knee so that your knee is directly over your ankle. Stretch the body towards the knee, straight up to an angle, and raise your arm at an angle as well. Now come back up to a standing position, and do this on the other side so both lungs get a stretch.
Poses on the Floor
Come onto all fours on the floor. Roll your spine upwards while exhaling, with your neck relaxed and chin falling to the floor. This pose is called Marjaryasana, or cat pose. Continue next with the cow pose, or Bitilasana. Do this pose by inhaling and curling your spine with your belly towards the floor, lifting your gaze up. Repeat this sequence of both poses several times while focusing on the breath. Now let your body rest flat on the floor, belly down. Lift up your chest in the cobra pose, or Bhujangasana. Do this by keeping palms facing down, with elbows and arms parallel to the body. Lift up your chest with a big inhale. Repeat this several times to expand the lungs.
Breathing Exercises
The Nursing School Catalog suggests that yoga can help the lungs work more efficiently, increasing circulation and oxygenation in the body. Start by sitting cross-legged or in a comfortable seated position. Follow your breath and notice where it is tense. Breathe into those areas of tension. Next, begin to breathe into the belly, not with puffed-out lungs. Pause at the top of each inhale and exhale fully. Try exhaling with a soft humming sound. This can also release any stored tension. Sit and breathe like this for at least 5 minutes with your eyes closed.
Member Comments