Yoga to Quit Smoking?

Answered by Kathleen Kastner, owner of Maya Yoga studio, in Kansas City, MO.

Are there any poses to help someone who’s trying to quit smoking? -Kate
 
All the poses combined in a yoga class can have a great impact on helping you to quit smoking, especially Camel pose, bow pose on your belly, standing bow, and backbends, which all help to open your lung and heart area. Your healthy goal will also get a boost from lying quietly in Savasana, because it works on your mind, just like meditation. Addictions begin in the mind, so you want to spend time in the silence, training the mind how to be still. A quiet mind can help you cancel out the thoughts that are causing cigarette cravings.
 
Also, a daily pranayama (breathing) practice could help you quiet the mind, clear out your lungs, and increase your lung capacity and your ability to carry oxygen to your body. To do it, sit upright in a comfortable cross-legged position. Close your eyes and rest the tops of your palms on your knees, with your elbows straight. Inhale deeply thru the nose and throat for 5 counts, pause, and slowly exhale for 5 counts while contracting your lower belly to your spine.

Kathleen Kastner has been teaching ashtanga, vinyasa and power yoga for ten years and is also the owner of Maya Yoga studio, in Kansas City, MO.

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