Active cycle of breathing (ACBT) is a technique used to transport built-up phlegm from the lungs and open the airways. Normal lung physiology allows tiny hairs, known as cilia, to move debris and secretions through the respiratory tract and out of the body. With some illnesses, such as asthma, this process becomes impaired. Active cycle of breathing utilizes deep-breathing techniques to expand the lungs fully, assist in the clearing of passages, and improve air intake.
Step 1
Sit on a chair or couch. Relax your shoulders and neck, but maintain a straight back.
Step 2
Place one hand on your stomach just below your rib cage. Feel for the expansion of the stomach, like a balloon filling, as you inhale. This will help you regulate your diaphragm for full lung expansion.
Step 3
Breathe in slowly through your nose. For deep breathing, inhale three times without letting out any air. This will help to expand the lungs and move air to the bottom. Inhale, stop, inhale again, stop and inhale again. The entire process will take just three or four seconds.
Step 4
Hold the air in your lungs for three seconds.
Step 5
Exhale slowly through the mouth as if sighing.
Step 6
Change the method to just one inhale after three or four breaths, or as you feel your lungs expand fully. You will be able to judge this by monitoring the pressure from the diaphragm against your hand. The farther your hand moves away from the body, the better the lung expansion.
