Performing breathing exercises for asthma may be a great way to help manage the condition, which affects millions of Americans every year. The ailment is the sixth most common chronic illness in the U.S., according to ABC News. School officials report that it is responsible for up to 10 million student absences annually.
Asthma can be triggered by tension and anxiety, which are familiar experiences for most children and teens. Peer pressure and academic challenges are responsible for much of the stress that individuals in these age groups have.
"Kids these days, especially teens, are under a lot of stress," said yoga instructor Audrey Tan, quoted by the news source. "When we are under stress, we tend to hold our breath or breathe more shallowly. In yoga, we teach you how to breathe more deeply."
The breathing exercises, poses and stretches of yoga – which are also known to be excellent pain management options – may help asthmatic individuals breathe more deeply. The gentle maneuvers may facilitate the flow of oxygen throughout the body, which also makes for healthier blood tissue.