Meditation was not required in saving myself. All you would need to know is not to panic and how to quickly relax every muscle down to your chest. The easiest way ( I'd discovered) had been tightening and releasing each muscle from the head down: scalp, forehead, eyes, nose, cheeks, mouth, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, and then chest. 

Years ago, when I'd first started meditating, I'd had to repeat each muscle until all tension had been released. I'd done this so many times starting meditations that after awhile I didn't have to give much attention to my muscles to get them to relax. It became almost instantaneous.

I thought I'd have called out to God in those minutes when I had no oxygen. Afterwards, I realized that didn't happen because I'd had all the tools I needed to save myself. 

Even if you never practiced these exercises, but remembered that this method was possible (when no other help was available) you'd have a good chance of saving your life.

Author's note:

Please feel free to share all content in its entirety, including all medical and safety warnings for Kundalini Yoga.

Any questions may be asked in a comment. I will answer them to the best of my ability. I am not an expert in anything, but I have had years of experience meditating.

If you've had a similar experience, you are welcome to share your story in a comment.
Happy journeys ;)