World COPD Day 2025: 3 simple yoga techniques to support lung health

Difficulty breathing can lead to serious health problems, one of which is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD includes progressive lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis that make daily life difficult. This condition is caused by inflammation of the lungs that restricts airflow, leading to common symptoms such as shortness of breath, increased mucus production, wheezing, and coughing. Yoga can be tailored to different fitness levels, making it a great exercise option for people with COPD. Strengthens the lungs and improves breathing and oxygen uptake.

What kind of yoga is effective for COPD patients?

1. Siddha Abhyas

Siddha Abhyas is an ancient Himalayan practice that focuses on breath, movement, and mindfulness. Improves the respiratory system and supports mental health. This gentle and effective technique helps balance the flow of prana, the life force, through small energy channels known as nadis.

structure:

Siddha Abhyas helps strengthen the connection between the body and breath. Regular practice strengthens lung flexibility and diaphragm control, making it easier to breathe smoothly and steadily. “This technique is helpful when stress or anxiety arises, which is common for many people dealing with chronic illness,” says Spiritual Yoga Master Himalaya Siddha Akshar tells Health Shot. Siddha Abhyas is a grounding practice. Promotes feelings of calm and energy, supporting long-term respiratory health and emotional balance.

Get started:

1. Find a comfortable space: Sit or stand up straight. Keep your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed.
2. Focus on breathing: Close your eyes and breathe naturally. “With each inhale, imagine energy filling your body,” says the yoga expert. With each exhale, let go of tension.
3. Incorporate gentle movements: Move your arms and torso in simple ways to match your breathing. This will help you pay attention to how your breath fills your lungs.

Expert tips: By practicing Siddha Abhyas regularly, COPD patients can strengthen their breathing and experience increased mental clarity.

2. Dwikand Pranayama?

Dwikhand pranayama, or two-part breathing technique, is a helpful technique for COPD patients. Divide your breathing into two stages to make your breathing easier to control and deeper.

advantage:

Many people with COPD have a hard time getting all the air out of their lungs and getting enough oxygen. “Dwikhand pranayama helps with this by encouraging better breathing patterns, which improves oxygen exchange and strengthens stamina over time,” says Akshar. Additionally, this practice reduces anxiety and leaves practitioners feeling calm and relaxed.

How to practice:

1. Initial preparation: Sit comfortably with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. It helps if you place your hands on your knees.
2. Inhale carefully: Breathe in slowly and pause for a moment. Feel the breath filling your body.
3. Complete the inhalation. Take a deep breath and fill your lungs. “Then exhale slowly, dividing your breath into several parts,” says the expert. Be sure to pause once you have finished exhaling.
4. repeat: Try completing 5-10 cycles. Notice any changes in your body or breathing patterns.

Expert tips: Regularly practicing Dwikand Pranayama can increase lung capacity and promote a calm and stress-free mind.

3. Vayustitiasana?

Vayusththiasana, also known as the air balance posture, is a simple standing pose that helps improve lung capacity and balance. Awareness of body position increases and deep diaphragmatic breathing is emphasized.

Posture and impact:

Vayusthiti Asana is a simple pose that helps open the chest and breathing channels. “This allows you to take in more air,” explains the expert. It also strengthens your back and flank muscles, which are important for healthy breathing.

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Steps to take:

1. Stand tall: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Let your arms hang loosely by your sides.
2. Connected to breathing: Please take a deep breath. Raise your hands and place them on your ribcage. Feel your ribs expand as your lungs fill with air.
3. Breathe out with intention.: As you exhale, focus on relaxing your shoulders and releasing tension in your upper body.

Expert tips: Incorporating Vayusthiasana into your daily life will improve your posture and help you breathe easier.