Respiratory diseases are very prevalent around the world, prematurely killing four million people every year. The hundreds of millions of people suffering from respiratory diseases can reduce the problem by limiting exposure to air pollution, both inside and out, and not using tobacco products.
For those suffering from COPD, asthma, emphysema, acute respiratory distress syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and other lung diseases, there is respiratory therapy. In the age of COVID-19, online respiratory therapy is also an option.
Respiratory therapies are available to help you overcome common breathing problems. Keep reading so you can start breathing better with these 5 incredible respiratory therapies.
1. Pursed-Lip Breathing
When trying to strengthen your breathing muscles, pursed-lip breathing is one option. Therapists find this effective in relieving shortness of breath. When you purse your lips during this breathing exercise, it slows down your exhale.
This is a highly recommended exercise for those suffering from asthma or COPD. From a relaxed position, inhale through the nose and exhale slowly through your mouth with your lips pursed. Your breath out should be twice as long as your breath in.
When you first begin this exercise, start with 2 seconds in and 4 seconds out. Practice several times a day and when you experience shortness of breath such as when you’re climbing stairs.
2. Yoga, Tai Chi, or Gigong
Physical activities that incorporate breathing exercises help you improve your respiratory health while working on your physical fitness as well. Body movements in these three practices coordinate with deep and smooth inhales and exhales.
You can practice these at home or in a class in your area.
3. Belly Breathing
For people with asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or even healthy people, this is an excellent way to build up your breathing muscles.
Focus on your diaphragm muscles to breathe using your belly and not just your chest. You get a much deeper inhale and exhale that way.
4. Alternate Nostril Breathing
This therapy is what the name implies. Breathe in through one nostril and out through the opposite nostril. You’ll improve your lung capacity and lung function.
5. Paced Breathing
More than just a way to increase your lung capacity, paced breathing is an easy, effective way to help you relax and de-stress. Maintain regular, rhythmic breathing by counting as you inhale and exhale. Increase the length of your breaths as you practice.
Breath in for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds and breathe out for 8 seconds.
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Breathe Better with Respiratory Therapies
Now that you know some respiratory therapies to help you breathe better, talk to a respiratory therapist or respiratory therapy technician to determine which ones are right for you and your situation. Add these therapies to your daily routine.
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