Air pollution: Try yoga and meditation, include ginger, honey and peppermint to keep your lungs healthy

Your lungs have the ability to heal and renew themselves on their own. Nevertheless, there are certain natural ways that can help cleanse your lungs, enabling you to breathe

Breathing is important, and equally essential is the quality of the air we take into our lungs. In a world where pollution, smoke, smog, and smoking have become omnipresent threats, the simple act of inhaling can expose us to unseen, unimaginable threats. These irritants, including cigarette smoke, air pollution, and others, not only pose risks to our health but also target our lungs, causing irreversible damage. The good news is that by avoiding polluted air, your lungs, the body's self-cleaning machines, can gradually recover on their own.

Your lungs have the ability to heal and renew themselves on their own. Nevertheless, there are certain natural ways that can help cleanse your lungs, enabling you to breathe.

Take a break: If breathing in your city's polluted air is negatively impacting your health, consider a respite from the urban chaos. Get away for a short vacation or staycation where you can surround yourself with nature. Spending time in nature provides access to clean, oxygen-rich air, a key component for lung health. Opt for hiking through the woods, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park, or simply bask in the tranquility of lush green surroundings. This  helps in reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses and improving lung function.

Power of  eucalyptus and peppermint: If escaping to nature isn’t a possibility, then bring home the nature. Take help from eucalyptus and peppermint, both rich in natural menthol. The two also have bronchodilator properties, which can ease breathing and fight congestion. Inhaling steam infused with these herbs can help clear out mucus and enhance your lung health.

Eat green: For healthy lungs, include leafy greens like kale, spinach, and broccoli into your diet. These are packed with antioxidants and nutrients like vitamins C and K, and can support your lungs' detoxification processes and help reduce the risk of chronic respiratory diseases.

Keep yourself hydrated: Water and herbal tea are both good for hydration. Apart from offering several other health benefits, these can also ensure better functioning of your lungs. A warm cup of herbal tea can help break down mucus, making it easier for your body to clear respiratory passages.

Control thy breath: Have you ever explored the art of controlled breathing? It’s time to practice yoga or meditation, for the sake of your lungs. Deep, purposeful breaths also help the  lungs release toxins, improve oxygen exchange, and manage stress more effectively. Controlled breathing techniques have been linked to reduced lung inflammation and improved lung function.

Move your body: Physical activity and exercising not only offer cardiovascular benefits but also play an important role in the functioning of lungs. Regular exercise strengthens your heart and lungs, making them more resilient. Walking, climbing stairs and jogging are some of the easiest ways to maintain physical activity.

Savour honey and ginger: The duo is popular for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Including these into your diet can provide relief to irritated airways and support your lungs' self-cleaning processes. Honey's soothing qualities are particularly beneficial in managing coughs and throat irritation, while ginger's anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce airway inflammation.

A dose of nutrients: You cannot underestimate the benefits of vitamin C, found abundantly in oranges, lemons, and berries. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that improves your immune system and assists in clearing toxins from your lungs. This essential vitamin can reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections and contribute to better lung health. Additionally, add potassium rich fruits and vegetables like bananas, sweet potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, spinach, apricots, figs and dates to your diet.