Do I Really Have Asthma if I Manage Without Medication?

I’m not entirely sure if I have asthma. I notice that when I get stressed or anxious, my chest tightens. I also experience shortness of breath. Is that asthma? Is that what your asthma feels like? According to my doctor, it is!

I never thought I had asthma and didn’t want to believe it. Are you in the same boat?

Did you know that in the UK, asthma affects around 5.4 million people? That’s approximately 8% of the population, with 1 in 11 children and 1 in 12 adults being treated for asthma. If you’re curious, here’s what I’ve learned about managing asthma over the years. It’s a slow process that requires practice and patience, but it’s worth it. Remember, always keep taking your prescribed inhalers.

1. Stop and Notice When Your Asthma Rises

Allow your asthma to rise as it normally does and take your medication as usual. But start paying attention to your thoughts when you notice the asthma symptoms.

• Was something bothering you?
• Were you about to do something you didn’t want to do?
• Was something getting awkward?

For the first few times, just notice. It’s important not to rush this step. Consider keeping a diary of your feelings to spot any patterns.

2. Do Something Different

Once you’ve noticed a pattern, try reacting differently. Instead of getting vexed or angry, try having the opposite reaction or stay neutral. Experiment and see what happens. Your inhaler is always there, so use it when needed.

This will take time and you will make mistakes, but remember, mistakes are learning experiences.

3. What Are You Thinking?

Where are you when your asthma rises?

• Was it the thought of doing something stressful?
• Were you thinking about the future?

Try focusing on the present instead. Notice your surroundings—something you can see, hear, smell, or touch—and just enjoy being in the moment. Did you notice a change in your asthma? Take your time and stay safe.

4. Let the Ground Support You

During asthma attacks, I often feel like I’m floating in a panic. Ask yourself if the ground is supporting you. Whether it’s a chair or a bed, feel your weight being supported and feel nice and heavy.

5. Let Your Head Be Light on Top of Your Spine

Once you feel supported by the ground, think about your head being free to move on top of your neck. This can activate your postural reflex, and you notice a lightness in yourself and easier breathing. Remember, this takes time, so keep working through the steps starting at 1.

Only practice these steps when it’s safe to do so, and always use your medication as prescribed.

Call to Action

If you found these tips helpful, consider diving deeper into managing asthma through mindful practices. I invite you to join my workshops or book a one-on-one session with me. Together, we can explore personalised strategies to help you breathe easier and live more authentically.

If you want to know more about me follow this link https://dogged-composer-2666.kit.com/1f58e37463 where you can download a meditation to help you to more grounded and present plus a series of emails that explain why I’m here writing this blog