Pulmonary Disorder & COPD Breathing Exercises
If you’ve been diagnosed with COPD or other similar pulmonary disorder, chances are good that your doctor has given you several tools to manage your illness. Perhaps you have been advised to use supplemental oxygen, or to exercise, or have been given the number for a local support group. One other thing that some physicians recommend is to do certain breathing techniques. This is a kind of physical therapy, which may help keep your muscles stronger, and alleviate some symptoms of COPD. Our COPD and pulmonary disorder breathing exercises can help you improve over time.
Like with most exercises, the more often you do these, the more benefit you will receive. If your doctor gives you the green light, consider adding these breathing techniques to your daily routine:
1. Deep belly breathing
Also known as “diaphragmatic breathing,” this exercise invites you to take deep breaths into your lower abdomen. Using the muscles of your diaphragm, you can increase the amount of oxygen you get with each breath. Lie down on your back, and place your hands on your stomach area. Breath deeply, watching your hands lift gently. Then, on the exhale, gently push all the air out, using your abdominal muscles. Repeat this COPD breathing exercise 5-10 times.
2. Pursed lip breathing
One technique that may ease shortness of breath is pursed lip breathing. By controlling the flow of your exhale, you can better regulate your breath rate and perhaps calm your nerves too. Begin by closing your mouth, and inhaling slowly through your nose, for two seconds. Then, imagine that you are sucking a straw, making your mouth into an “O” shape. Exhale smoothly and evenly through your pursed lips for four seconds. Repeat 5-10 times.
There are many ways that you can live your best life with COPD. Want more breathing exercise tips, or need help choosing the right oxygen for your needs? Get in touch with us today!