Namaste Radhika mam. Can yoga help cure asthma? Or is it risky to do yoga when you have breathing problems?

Ans: You can definitely practice yoga under guidance. Postures are extremely beneficial when done correctly. Without directly impacting the left knee you can work on the upper body, the core and the waist. Calcium is good to have, so definitely take it in its prescribed dosage. The morning sunlight is also very good to build bone strength. Drink warm water throughout the day. Eat plenty of drumsticks as they contain high amounts of calcium and iron that will help you heal the knee faster. Avoid preservative and fermented foods. You cannot get coughing because of Yoga, if anything Practicing yoga will only help heal the body overall. Try drinking a warm glass of milk that is infused with turmeric and ghee. It’s an age old grandmothers recipe.

Ans: Hi, There are two things that can be explored - (1) A gentle yoga routine which focusses on stress management and deep relaxation through stretches, breathing, chanting etc, and (2) Breath Retention exercises such as in Butyeko Breathing for which there is anecdotal evidence that it helps with Asthma. This should be done under the supervision of a trained teacher or in consultation with your physician. All the best.

Ans: Yoga, with its holistic approach to health and wellness, has been known to provide numerous benefits for the mind and body. But can it also help in fighting the common cold and cough. The potential of yoga as a natural remedy for these common ailments cannot be over-ruled.

While we often associate yoga with flexibility, strength, and relaxation, this ancient practice goes beyond just physical exercise. It encompasses breathing techniques, meditation, and mindfulness - all of which can contribute to boosting our immune system and improving respiratory health. We know that common cold and cough are caused by viral infections that affect the upper respiratory system. While there is no permanent cure for these illnesses, practicing yoga regularly will help alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural healing process. By incorporating specific yoga asanas (poses) that focus on opening up the chest, clearing congestion, and promoting deep breathing, you may experience relief from nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing fits, and other discomforts associated with colds. Additionally, certain pranayama (breathing exercises) practiced in yoga can strengthen lung capacity and improve overall respiratory function. These exercises involve slow deep breaths that help clear out toxins from the lungs while supplying fresh oxygen to the body and creating a strong immune system.
Asanas like: Parvatasana or mountain pose.
Ustrasana or the camel pose.
Setubandhasana or bridge pose.
Kapalbhati sharkarma kriya, anulom-vilom pranayama, Ujjayi Pranayama etc. can be of great help.

Ans: Practise Yoga from what you are capable now. With regular practise you will be able to do Sukhasana. Until then sit with back support.
Preludes in yoga which is called Yama-the attitude towards self. One of Tha Yamas is Ahimsa - Non violence to yourself. So please do not violate your body capacity. You will be able to breathe well into Sukhasana one day