Deep breathing is a relaxation technique done to release tension from your body and clear your mind. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, regular, mindful breathing can be calming and energizing and can even help stress-related health problems. Coughing exercises are useful for patients suffering from COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) to help relieve chest congestion and improve lung capacity. Check with your physician before beginning any new exercise program.
The Stimulating Breath
This type of deep breathing evolved from yoga breathing and aims to raise energy and increase alertness. If done properly you will feel the effort in your diaphragm, chest, stomach and the back of your neck. Keep your mouth closed as you inhale and exhale rapidly through your nose. Keep your breaths short, about three in-and-out breaths per second, and make them equal in duration. This quick breathing produces fast movement in your diaphragm. Do not try to perform this exercise for more than 15 seconds on your first try. Instead, increase your time by five seconds until you reach a full minute.
The Relaxing Breath
This type of deep breathing helps you to relax. You can use it while trying to fall asleep or to relieve internal tension. Sit on a chair with your back straight and hold the tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth throughout the exercise. Exhale completely through your mouth. Inhale through your nose to a count of four then hold your breath for seven seconds. Exhale completely to a count of eight. This is one complete breath. Repeat the cycle three more times. You should always inhale quietly through your nose and exhale audibly through your mouth.
Huff Coughing
Huff coughing helps keep your throat open so that you can force mucus out of your lungs. A respiratory therapist generally helps patients with huff coughing, but this technique can also be performed at home. Begin by inhaling slowly and deeply. Hold your breath to a count of three, then force an exhalation, whispering "huff" as you let your breath out.
Cough Exercise
Sit straight up on a chair. Relax your entire body and inhale deeply through your nose twice. Purse your lips and exhale slowly. Cross your arms over your stomach and take another deep breath through your nose. Lean forward, press your arms against your abdomen, and then cough. Rest and relax for five minutes before performing again if needed.
"K" Cough Exercise
This coughing exercise is similar to the huff cough exercise. Sit straight on a chair and relax. Inhale deeply through your nose two or three times. Purse your lips and exhale slowly. Inhale a moderately deep breath, hold it briefly, then expel the air while saying "K." Once you feel comfortable doing this exercise, say "K" three or four times while exhaling.
Member Comments