Lungs provide oxygen to the brain and other organs which is the most essential thing required to keep you alive, fit and fine. So, it is very necessary to keep your lungs healthy and strong, and keep the oxygen level in the body at an optimum level, and make sure that this oxygen is well circulated throughout the body. Daily practice of yoga postures ensures the lung’s airflow, capacity, and efficiency. Different yoga postures help to open up the chest, remove tensions, unblock energy flow and drain out the mucus from the lungs, thus activating the oxygen circulation in the body.
Here is the list of 10 yoga postures that are highly relevant in increasing the oxygen circulation throughout the body-
1) Bhujangasana
Also called the cobra pose, it not only improves mental calmness, soothes the mind but also improves the brain functioning and makes the central nervous system stronger. It helps to stretch out the chest and lungs, thus opening it for deeper breaths. As it stimulates the nervous system and blood circulation, oxygen is circulated equally throughout the body. Additionally, it cures sciatica, soothes back pain, and gives relief from the mild symptoms of asthma.
2) Padma Sarvangasana
Also known as the lotus shoulder stand, it is beneficial in releasing mental and emotional stress. It strengthens the reproductive organs, nervous system, and stimulates hormonal glands. It enhances blood circulation, respiration, and aids indigestion. Releasing the legs after the completion of this yoga posture brings in the extra supply of fresh blood and oxygen to the internal organs such as the kidney, liver, lungs, and large intestines.
3) Ardha Mastyendrasana
Also called a sitting half spinal twist, this yoga posture is extremely beneficial in relieving breathing difficulties, stress and, tension. The twisting it provides to the upper body enhances the functioning of lung muscles and induces deep breathing. This ensures better circulation of oxygen in the lung cavity. It also removes stiffness from vertebrae, aids in lowering back pain.
4) Viparit Karani
Another name for it is legs up the wall, this yoga posture is both an asana and a yoga mudra in hatha yoga sequence. It is known to promote the relaxation of the heart muscles. It encourages the energy flow from the legs to the upper center of the body. It can be done with the support of a wall or a pile of blankets. It helps to increase circulation and elevate venous drainage, lowers stress and anxiety.
5) Yog Mudrasana
This forward bent sitting yoga posture is also called psychic union pose. It increases the flexibility of leg joints, hips, arms, shoulder joints. It is a slightly difficult pose for beginners. So, recommended to try it under the observance of your yoga trainer and you will eventually be able to touch the floor after practice for a week. It activates kundalini and chakras and therapeutic in treating diabetes, asthma, and hypertension.
6) Gomukhasana
When it is seen from the back it looks like the mouth of a cow, so is the name given as cow face pose. It is one of the important asanas that help to build a strong respiratory system. It allows good mobility in all the joints and strengthens the back & chest. As it opens up the chest and heart, breathing function, oxygen flow, and circulation of blood are also improved. It activates muladhara, swadisthana, and ananta chakras.
7) Makarasana
Also known as the crocodile pose, it is a deeply restorative pose. It offers deep relaxation to your spine and shoulder. It can cure asthmatic symptoms, knee pain, and any lung-related issues. It is very helpful for relaxing the whole mind and body. It improves blood circulation in the body, elevates breathing, and helps in respiring easily. Don’t put stress on the body during performing this yoga posture as it is all about peacefully relaxing the body.
8) Mandukasana
Mandukasana or the frog pose keeps the heart healthy and removes colitis from the root. It gives relief from diabetes and constipation. Regular practice of this pose increases your lung capacity. It brings stillness to the body and encourages deep breathing & expansion of the lungs. Those with any abdominal injury must avoid this yoga posture. Always ask a yoga expert before attempting any kind of yoga practice.
9) Tiryaka Tadasana
Also called as swaying palm tree pose, it is a basic standing posture. It is a variation of the tadasana with a side stretch involved. It gives a good stretch to the arm and leg muscles, spine, and side body. It opens up the chest and helps in reducing the fat around the belly. It helps in getting rid of constipation and gastritis. It is highly beneficial for people suffering from asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis.
10) Shalabhasana
Shalabhasana i.e. Locust pose is a back-bending yoga posture that strengthens your spine and central nervous system thus improving the circulation of blood and oxygen. It opens up the chest improving the breathing capacity. It stimulates parasympathetic nerves in the lower spinal region and helps in relieving sciatica and back pain. It strengthens the pelvic organs, hip joints, and leg muscles.
All these yoga postures along with some other yoga practices stimulate the nervous system, ensure the health of the lungs, and increase oxygen flow & circulation in the body. Always take the advice of your doctor and yoga expert before performing any yoga asana on your own.