Breathing is an instinctive bodily process that we do without thinking, and it's critical to humans staying alive and functioning properly. Breathing allows us to bring oxygen into the body and use it in processes as energy. But as simple as this process is, there are several ways it can become less efficient for our bodies. Sleep apnea results in reduced or inconsistent oxygen flow while sleeping, and even breathing during the day can be improved for many individuals. While the way most people breathe is good enough to maintain life, Discovery Health reports there are exercises you can do to develop a more efficient breathing pattern.
Step 1
Use breathing exercises to facilitate proper breathing while you are awake. Exercises can help instill habits that can carry through your entire day. A good breathing exercise starts by lying down flat on the floor and placing a book on your stomach. Inhale deeply and fill the stomach, causing the book on your abdomen to rise in the air. Exhale and watch the book drop. Once you have done this a few times, remove the book, sit up and repeat this breathing exercise, filling the stomach on the inhale and pushing air out on the exhale. According to Discovery Health, this exercise can significantly improve daily breathing when you take three deep breaths during breaks several times throughout the day.
Step 2
Slow down your breathing and deepen your breaths. Improved breathing can have effects that spill over into other aspects of your health. According to the Ralph Lauren Center, deep breathing done throughout the day can reduce your body's stress levels, freeing your body and mind up for more interesting pursuits.
Step 3
Maintain normal breathing when exercising--particularly when lifting. Many people choose to hold their breath while lifting heavy objects, but this can actually expose you to an increased risk of injury due to stress on the muscles, particularly those in the torso. Breathe regularly to provide oxygen to your body while performing work, and try to maintain deep, slow breathing as much as possible to keep the body calm and oxygen intake efficient.
