Asthma is a respiratory problem characterised by laboured breathing and shortness of breath accompanied by a wheezing sound. There are two rules to follow when you have asthma:
(a) Always carry your inhaler with you.

(b) If you have an attack while doing pilates or any other activity, just stop.

Breathing is fundamental to living and is also essential for achieving intended goals in movement. Pilates can help control the ailment. Asthma can be controlled by this form of exercise, if it is stress-related but if it is exercise-induced then a professional needs to be consulted in order to get advice on breathing techniques.

Preparation: Place a pillow under your head while lying flat on your back. Keep the knees bent with the feet flat on the mat. The kneecaps should face the ceiling.

Action: Inhale for two full counts and exhale forcefully for six counts. Go on with this breathing pattern and slowly add a little sound while exhaling — ‘shhhhhh’. Inhale for two counts as you relax the legs flat on the mat. Do not forget to make the ‘shhhhhh’ sound while breathing out at all times. Repeat 10 times.

Benefits: By doing this simple exercise, you can wring out the lungs and detoxify them to a great extent.