In the past 20 years there has been a considerable increase in the prevalence of asthma in Ireland. Estimates vary but according to the Asthma Society of Ireland, as many as 470,000 people in Ireland are asthmatic.

Environmental pollution is thought to be one of the likely causes, either due to a great change in the external environment over this period (allergic substances, pollution, smoking) or due to a change in our bodies’ response to the external environment.

Most sufferers are prescribed inhalers for their condition and it goes without saying that whatever asthma medication has been prescribed for you by your doctor – you keep taking it.  But in conjunction you could also try this yogic breathing tip.

Sit in a comfortable chair with your back straight, both feet flat on the floor and hands sitting loosely on your lap. Focus on your breath and breathe through your nose. Asthmatics are often chronic mouth breathers but it is very important to breathe through your nose as much as possible. Air breathed in through the nose is filtered, warmed and moistened, making it just right for sensitive airways. Nose breathing also promotes correct diaphragmatic action since it makes hyperventilation more difficult.

You may protest that you have to breathe through your mouth because your nose is always blocked. But did you know that a chronically blocked nose can be a result of poor breathing, instead of the other way around?
Try this for 5 minutes a day initially, building up to 10-15 minutes over time. If your mind wanders then just gently bring your attention back to your breath.
You’ll notice the difference.