What Kind of Breathing Techniques for COPD Should I Choose?
Q: Which breathing technique is the most appropriate for me?
A: I recommend you two breathing techniques called pursed-lips breathing and diaphragmatic breathing.
To do pursed-lips breathing, you should obey the steps as follow:
- Breathe in through your nose for about 2 seconds
- Pucker your lips like you’re getting ready to blow out candles on a birthday cake
- Breathe out very slowly through pursed-lips, two to three times as long as you breathed in
- Repeat
Diaphragmatic breathing is also known as abdominal or belly breathing. The steps are as follow:
- Relax your shoulders
- Place on hand on your chest and another hand on your belly
- Inhale though your nose for about two seconds
- As you breathe in, you belly should move outward. Your belly should move more than your chest
- As you breathe out slowly through pursed-lips, gentle press on your belly. This will push up on your diaphragm to help get your air out.
- Repeat
Here is a better breathing tip for you: It is normal for you to hold your shoulders tense and high. Before starting any breathing technique, take a minute to drop your shoulders down, close your eyes and then, relax.
Keyword: copd breathing techniques
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* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.