6 yoga poses that are good for the lungs

Practicing yoga daily helps increase flexibility, increase chest muscles and keep the body supple and healthy. This exercise also helps increase lung capacity and improve breathing.

Reed pose

When performing the reed pose, the chest and rib cage are expanded, helping the body get enough oxygen, thereby improving lung capacity. Practicing this pose regularly helps breathe deeper and more evenly, reducing shortness of breath due to congestion.

Start with an upright position. Slowly pull your arms up above your head, lengthening your spine and straightening your body. Palms facing each other, gently bend backwards while keeping your head between your arms. Eyes open, following hands, knees straight. Hold this position for 5 breaths, return to the starting position.

Sit bent forward

This position helps push out all the air in the lungs, creating space to bring in more oxygen. Start in a sitting position with your legs stretched forward. Inhale, keeping your back straight while raising your arms in the air. Slowly bend forward, stretching your hips. Exhale and touch your big toes with your hands, placing the tips of your knees. Hold for 5 breaths and return to the starting position.

Camel pose

Start in a kneeling position, butt touching heels. Kneel straight, keep your back straight, head up, hips and knees in line. Slowly lean back, arching your back, placing your palms on your feet. Hold this position for a few breaths. Exhale, then slowly return to the starting position.

Triangle pose

This exercise increases air circulation, easily entering the lungs, thereby stimulating the nervous system. Start by standing straight on the exercise mat, legs extended, about 3-4 foot lengths apart. Keep the left foot straight, the right foot slightly to the side. Slowly lean to the left. The left hand points straight down towards the toes, the right hand raises up to form a straight line.

Hold the position for two minutes. Head and chest facing forward. Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.

Cow face pose

Performing the cow face pose regularly brings many benefits such as expanding the intercostal muscles thereby increasing lung capacity. It also improves abdominal and diaphragmatic breathing.

Sit on the floor with your right knee overlapping your left knee. Bring the left arm back from below, the right arm above the head over the shoulder. Squeeze so that your hands touch each other behind your back. Maintain this position so that your head is pressed against the raised arm. Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.

Boat pose

Practicing this pose regularly helps expand the chest and improve breathing. To do this, sit up straight, legs stretched out in front of you, arms placed on either side of the body. Exhale and bend your legs, then slowly raise your legs off the floor at a 45-degree angle. Keep your back straight, put your weight on your buttocks, and try to maintain a straight spine, arms, and legs. Hold the position for 5 minutes then return to the starting position.