Asthma is a medical condition which is caused by the
narrowing of the bronchial tubes in the respiratory system. This narrowing is
generally caused by an inflammation due to allergic reaction or infection.
Asthma can be hereditary but can also depend on an individual’s constitution.
General symptoms of Asthma are wheezing, coughing, shortness
of breath at night or on exertion, violent coughing and tightness in the chest.
In Yoga, it is said that an Asthmatic patient generally has weak exhalation.
Hence they are made to do more of breathing exercises to improve their
exhalation.
Asthma is a physiological condition but it can be triggered
by emotional imbalance. Other triggers are allergens in food or air or certain
irritants in the environment, like the presence of a pet, pollen, toxic fumes
from paint on the walls, dust, unclean carpets, etc.
Is there a Cure?
It is said that Asthma has no cure. The inhalers and
steroids invented by modern medicine help in opening up the air passages during
an attack. But how to prevent it?
Yoga and Alternative Therapies like Reflexology help in
preventing attack and maintaining good health.
Pranayamas and Kriyas taught in Yoga help to improve
the breathing capacity as well as strengthen immunity. Kriyas like Jalneti especially
help in preventing infection that can easily trigger attacks. Yoga also helps
in keeping a balanced state of mind which, when achieved helps keep emotions in
check. This helps prevent attacks due to causes like anxiety, stress and
emotional distress.
Reflexology
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| Lung Press |
Reflexology is known for its relaxing and stimulating
effect. The warm-up techniques, especially the lung press, upward thumb
friction on the soles of the feet as well as massaging between the metatarsals
on the upper surface of the feet help to relax the patient and triggers slower,
deeper respiration.
The main areas to focus on in Reflexology are the Nervous
System, the Respiratory System and the Lymphatic System.
The Nervous System helps stimulate better nerve function and
will keep the person calm and relaxed. The Respiratory System obviously needs
to be worked on as it is the main system that gets affected. Thumb/ finger
walking and pivoting can be done on the lung area on the sole as well as the
upper surface of the feet, the nasal passage and sinuses are also the areas to
focus on. Working on the Lymphatic System helps improve immunity and remove
stress.
Reflexology is especially effective on children. They
immediately begin to relax, their breathing slows down and they also fall
asleep almost immediately. It has been found that Reflexology triggers overall
healing, not just in the body, but also the mind and the spirit.
(Please note: For areas of each system mentioned above, you can refer to the interactive reflexology chart given at the bottom of the blog.)
