Yoga emphasizes the connection of body, mind and breath. Although many individuals think of yoga as a series of physical poses, the traditional principle of yoga involves living a lifestyle that provides a path leading to spiritual enlightenment. Practitioners of yoga use breathing techniques and certain poses to help clear and strengthen the lungs. As with any new exercise routine, talk to your doctor about any health conditions that may limit your ability to perform the activities.
Abdominal Breathing
Sit in a comfortable position, keeping your knees slightly lower than your pelvis to allow free movement of your diaphragm. Sit on a small block or folded towel to provide comfort during this lung-clearing exercise. Relax in your sitting pose, holding your spine straight and erect. Slowly draw in a deep breath, allowing your abdomen to expand. Visualize the air filling your empty belly like a balloon. Slowly exhale, picturing your abdomen deflating and becoming hollow. Repeat this breathing technique several times before moving on to other poses or beginning your meditation practice.
Alternate Nostril Breathing
Known as Nadi Shodhana, yoga practitioners often use this technique to help calm the mind, soothe anxiety and promote clear thinking. Sit comfortably and curl the index and middle fingers of your right hand into the palm, allowing your thumb, ring finger and baby finger to extend outward. Inhale and exhale a deep breath. Place the palm of your right hand below your chin and close your right nostril with your thumb while you inhale deeply through your left nostril, filling your lungs with air. Release your right nostril and cover your left nostril with your extended ring finger, exhaling fully through your right nostril. Pause slightly before repeating the inhalation and exhalation exercise.
Cat Pose
The cat pose, also known as Marjaryasana, helps to exercise your lungs while stretching your spine. Start this pose on your hands and knees on the floor. Place your knees below your hips and your hands below your shoulders, evenly distributing the weight of your body. Look at the floor and keep your head in a neutral position. Exhale your breath and round your spine toward the ceiling. Keep your knees and shoulders in position. Empty your lungs completely. Inhale deeply while lowering your extended spine back to your starting position, filling your lungs as your spine flattens between your shoulders and hips, resembling the top of a table.
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