Global health, respiratory distress and yoga

By Yogi Baba Prem, Vedavisharada

 

With travel so common between countries and the ease and convenience of long distance commuting, we are witnessing an increase of the spread of disease.  Due to the ease of travel, it is easier than ever for disease to travel from one country to another.  Large populations can become infected with relative ease compared with previous ages.  Modern age examples of a disease quickly being introduced to a foreign society are the Caucasian introductions of small pox to Native American populations in the United States.  In fact this was, on at least a few occasions, an example of germ warfare.  In our present age this danger is easier than ever.  To this we can add a growing problem with the quality of air that the average person is exposed to and it provides a powerful one-two punch for our respiratory system.  Frequently ozone and air quality warnings are issued, though these are usually of concern to people with weakened immune systems, the aged, or individuals with already existing conditions of the respiratory system. 

Does yoga have anything that could help with these concerns?  The answer is yes!  Using Marma points, breathing exercises, neti pots, and postures our respiratory system can gain a boost.  While little scientific study has been performed on many of the ancient techniques, they have been used quite successfully for thousands of years.  Let’s explore some of the more practical tools:

1) Movement.  Scientist now knows that movement is excellent for the body.  It helps in cleansing or draining of the lymphatic system and it is stimulating to the immune system.  So any type of movement can be of benefit. 

2) Breathing.  Yoga offers a variety of techniques for the respiratory system.  The most fundamental technique would be the complete breath or diaphragmatic breathing.  This simple yet powerful technique aids in stress reduction (reducing stress on the immune system), it increases oxygen flow in the body; in addition it provides stimulation to the lungs providing a complete workout for the respiratory system.  The technique is quite simple.  Place a hand on the navel and feel that you are filling the lungs from the bottom to the top.  As you inhale, the navel should move away from the spine, creating a sort of “Buddha Belly”.  As you exhale, the navel slowly pulls in toward the spine. 

Once the complete breath is comfortable for the practitioner another yogic breath can be of benefit; it is called Bhastrika.  The technique is similar to the complete breath but it is more rapid.  It has more of stimulating and energizing effect.  Bhastrika is contraindicated for pregnancy, certain types of illness and children prior to puberty.  But it is an excellent breath for stimulating and cleansing the lungs.  Bhastrika was referred to as a blood cleanser in some ancient teachings; I personally believe this was a reference to it oxygenating effects that restrict the activity of bacteria and virus’.  It is best to learn this technique from a trained teacher.  There are other breaths such as the lung cleansing breath that can be of benefit also.  All breathing exercises are best learned from a skilled teacher.  They should be practiced for short periods of time with practice time gradually increasing.  For more details, consult with my book, Understanding the Kundalini.

3) Neti Pot.  The neti pot is an easy and commonly used yogic device.  The neti pot is usually a ceramic pot that is filled with warm water and salt that does not contain iodine.  Basically the idea is to pour the solution through one nostril and allow it to pour out the other.  Neti pots can be purchased at most health food stores, new age shops, or yoga centers.  Make sure that the one you purchase has directions.  The neti pot helps to remove contaminates from the upper respiratory track (nasal passages), in addition the salt water helps to kill some types of bacteria and possibly weaken some viruses.  Another benefit is through lubrication and moisturizing of the nasal passages.  This lubrication and moisturizing can also aid in the health of mucous lining of the nasal passages.  Pandit Vamadeva Shastri (Dr. David Frawley) has an excellent book on this entitled, Neti: Healing Secrets of Yoga and Ayurveda.

4) Marmas.  While a number of marmas[1] exist that increase the immune and energy flow of the respiratory system, this is too expansive of a subject for this article.  But there are several points that we can use.  Practicing pranam, hands in prayer position, let the forearms touch the chest lightly below the breasts.  There is a point on the arms that will gently stimulate the lungs energy.  Another point is looking at the right hand with the palm turned down; go to the wrist on the inside (closest to the body).  Where the wrist and bone from the arm meets is an area known as the “snuff box”.  This is a marma that strengthens the immune system according to Ayurveda.  A gentle pressure on the head of the bone for approximately 60 to 80 seconds is sufficient.  I must repeat that these are best learned from a skilled practitioner. 

5) Asana.  Most yoga postures are cleansing, building or balancing to the body.  So most yoga practice should have a gentle strengthening to the immune system.  Postures should be learned from a qualified teacher.  Asana can also aid in keeping the digestive system strong.  Simple techniques such as navel rotations are excellent for strengthening the digestive system in a gentle way.  Ginger tea is also beneficial for strengthening the digestive system and eliminating toxins. 

Though only exposing the “tip of the iceberg” of techniques that yoga and Ayurveda has to offer, one can clearly see that this ancient system has much to offer to meet the challenges of a new age.  I have personally used all of the techniques mentioned in this article with success.  While these techniques are not a “cure-all”.  They can be a powerful tool and an important addition to your personal program of wellness.  Always consult with your doctor before beginning this or any health program.