The level of air pollution always increases due to the transition from summer to winter and the beginning of festivals. People who suffer from asthma and other respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the burden of toxic air. Breathing in such circumstances is considered dangerous for the body. Studies even say it can be equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes every day! Yoga can help prevent toxins from entering your body, and you can also do deep breathing exercises to increase lung capacity. When outdoor air quality is poor, practice breathing exercises to prevent pollutants from damaging your respiratory system.

Practice deep breathing exercises to avoid lung problems. Image Courtesy: Adobe Stock

Deep breathing exercises to beat air pollution

Here are three simple breathing exercises to combat the effects of air pollution, suggested by yoga expert Nisha Dhawan. 1. Anulom Vilom Pranayam Nadi Shodhana Pranayam is a breathing technique that helps in clearing blocked channels. This technique is also known as Anulom-Vilom Pranayam. Regular practice of at least 10 minutes per day will help clear blockages and is designed to purify the nadis or energy channels. 2. Kapalbhati Kapalbhati is the top choice of every yoga practitioner. It helps in detoxifying the entire system. For people suffering from shortness of breath, this breathing technique can help flush out toxins from the lungs and brain. Kapalabhati increases oxygen flow and improves digestion besides clearing the respiratory system.

Do Kapalbhati to strengthen your lungs! Image Courtesy: Shutterstock 3. Bhastrika This breathing exercise – often called the breath of fire – aids detoxification and removes pollutants from the body. This technique helps in keeping the stomach free from toxins and boosts our immunity. The best way to practice Bhastrika is to sit in Vajrasana or Sukhasana, the classic cross-legged yoga position. Now make fists and bend your arms keeping them near your shoulders. While inhaling, raise your arms straight and open your fists. Now exhale forcefully as you bring your arms back to your shoulders and close your first arms. Continue this for at least 20 repetitions. Rest to end the session. Yoga experts recommend doing these three breathing exercises regularly in the morning or afternoon, which can help reduce stress levels and flush out toxins from the body.

What are the benefits of deep breathing exercises?

1. Detoxification Breathing exercises aid detoxification and give you energy. More air can flow in and out of your lungs allowing you to be more physically active. 2. Increase oxygen level Breathing exercises can help get rid of stale air accumulated in the lungs, increase oxygen levels, and get the diaphragm back to its function. When your lungs are healthy, breathing becomes natural and easy. 3. Improves lung capacity Breathing exercises can potentially help maintain or increase lung capacity in people who have no underlying lung problems. 4. To lead to relaxation Deep breathing exercises can also stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and aids digestion.

Can everyone do deep breathing exercises?