Breathing exercises for sore joints range from gentle movements to higher-impact activities. All require consultation with your doctor to develop an exercise program that protects you against further injury. Not all exercises may be applicable to your individual level of health.
Benefits
Breathing exercises for sore joints can provide many benefits, both psychologically and physically. Psychologically, breathing exercise can improve self-confidence and self-image, enhance a positive mental outlook towards life, improve body awareness, increase relaxation levels, lower risk of depression and increase overall feelings of well-being. Physically, breathing exercises increase lung capacity, enhance blood circulation to joints and the entire body, improve oxygen distribution throughout the body, decrease joint discomfort and pain levels, improve pain tolerance and joint mobility and increase muscular endurance, according to NursingDegree.net.
Water Maneuvers
Exercising in water supports body joints, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Water supplies a natural buoyancy that takes stress off your joints, allowing joints to move more fluidly and effortlessly than on land. Exercising in warm water relaxes your joints and muscles, thereby increasing joint mobility and decreasing pain levels. Breathing exercises for sore joints can include swimming, water calisthenics such as jumping jacks, water jogging or water walking in either chest- or waist-deep water. The deeper the water, the more intense the all-body workout.
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient art that combines mind, body and spirit. The main premises of yoga is deep breathing, which promotes relaxation, concentration and focus upon specific postures being performed using gentle, deliberate and slow movements. These movements may help; you should avoid sudden movements when moving painful joints. Postures combined with deep breathing can relax tight muscles and joints, allowing for increased joint range of motion, strengthening muscles and bones, enhancing overall dexterity and lowering risk of developing osteoporosis, according to NursingDegree.net. You can do yoga while either standing or sitting in a chair. Practicing yoga can reduce joint stress by improving body awareness and helping with weight loss.
Dancing
Dancing can be a beneficial breathing exercise for sore joints, according to ArthritisToday.org. Dancing, an aerobic fitness activity, can provide an all-body workout that improves mobility, strength and coordination while enhancing the cardiovascular system and increasing lung capacity. Finding a dance that is fun will increase likelihood of staying with it. Styles to choose from include Zumba or salsa, belly dancing, pole dancing and hip hop.
Considerations
Take into consideration a number of items while choosing any breathing exercise for sore joints. Start slow and gradually increasing your intensity level and time. Choose lower-impact activities that place less impact upon your joints, such as stepping instead of jumping. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration while exercising. If you are new to exercising, start with only two to five minutes in order to let your body become accustomed to moving.
