Common Diseases
Asthma, a
disease of the respiratory system
Triggered
usually by allergy, stress or trauma.
Asthma is
defined as a paroxysmal obstruction
of the airways due to generalised
narrowing of the bronchi which can
reverse either spontaneously or as
the result of treatment. It is
compounded by the excess generation
of mucus. Most asthma, around
four-fifths, results from common
allergens such as house dust, mites,
cat dander and moulds. Cigarette
smoke and other atmospheric
pollutants also contribute.
New Zealand has
one of the highest rates of asthma in
the world. No one is sure why,
however it is highly probable that
the depleted oxygen levels in the
environment coupled with increased
atmospheric pollution and a weakening
of the immune system contribute
greatly.
Asthma is more
common in Maori and Pacific Islanders
than among non-Polynesians but
treatment rates are similar between
groups.
The most common
treatment is the ventalin inhaler,
also a heart stimulant this usually
provides temporary relief.
A Personal
Experience:
As
a teenager with asthma to the point
where it was totally debilitating at
the height of the summer.
My recovery
came from practising karate, after
six months of this vigorous exercise
coupled with self discipline, my
asthma vanished totally for a number
of years. After parting ways with
karate, my fitness level declined a
little and the asthma re-appeared,
but not as severe. Later I took up
the practice of yoga (hatha yoga) and
again the asthma retreated.
My conclusion
therefore is that the physical and
mental exercise such as karate or the
gentler yoga, is a cure for asthma. I
must add here that it is very
important to have an excellent
teacher who is able to also impart
the wisdom that is a part of these
practices. This is very much a code
of personal and social honour, or
ethics. Such an art must work on both
the physical body as well as the
inner being.
Over some years of reflection I have
the feeling that asthma arises out of
an inner feeling of self
worthlessness, that one is not good
enough, a lack of self esteem. The
disciplines of Yoga and Karate assist
the development of self esteem as
well as conditioning the body.
Also over this
time in my study of yoga, I have
found techniques in breathing to
relieve attacks and leave the patient
calm and breathing easily. These I am
happy to share and if in Christchurch
I will on invitation teach these
simple techniques.
Hay fever:
Is again an
imbalance of the respiratory system
where the oversensitivity of the
sinuses causes excess mucus and
irritation. A diet low in mucus
forming foods and the yoga practice
of neti which de-sensitizes the
sinuses helps to reduce the severity
of this condition.
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