The word yoga means to connect or unite. To connect with the self or divine self or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you perform all of these, it helps you to achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help to cure several health conditions and manage their symptoms.

There are different yoga asanas and each of them has its own benefits. Yoga is known to be beneficial for several health issues. Certain yoga poses are also known to benefit your lungs as well. Here, take a look at seven yoga poses that help to increase your lung capacity.

Also known as the Cobra Pose, it helps to strengthen and stretch your lungs. To perform Bhujangasana, lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders, press into your palms, and lift your chest while keeping your elbows slightly bent. Hold for a few breaths before releasing. It is also beneficial for your mental health.

Also known as the Sitting Half Spinal Twist, this helps to improve your breathing. Sit with one leg bent and the other crossed over it, place the opposite arm on the outside of the knee, and twist the torso while keeping the spine straight. Hold for a few breaths and repeat on the other side. It opens your chest and relieves back pain.

Also known as Bow Pose, this asana helps to cleanse your lungs and also lower your back pain. Lie on your stomach, bend your knees, reach back to grab your ankles, and lift your chest and thighs off the ground while pulling your legs up. Hold for a few breaths before releasing.

Also known as the Camel Pose, this asana is not just beneficial for your lungs but also helps with your back pain. Kneel on the floor with your knees hip-width apart, place your hands on your lower back, and arch your back, reaching for your heels. Keep your neck relaxed and hold the pose for a few breaths.

Also known as Bridge Pose, this asana helps to expand your chest and improve lung function. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips toward the ceiling. Keep your fingers interlaced under your back and roll your shoulders under, making a bridge-like shape.

Also known as Tree Pose, this pose helps in deep breathing which improves your enhances lung capacity. Stand on one leg, place the sole of the opposite foot on the inner thigh or calf (avoid the knee), bring your hands to the prayer position in front of your chest and focus on breathing. This not only improves balance but also helps in calm and controlled breathing, improving your lung capacity.

Pranayama includes various breathing techniques that help to lung capacity. Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath) and Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) are beneficial. These exercises help to improve lung function by increasing oxygen intake and breathing out carbon dioxide efficiently, thereby, improving respiratory health.