Breathing is so important that the "ABC" method of assessing the need for emergency care focuses on breathing for two of its three components. Breathing safety is understanding the factors that affect the air you breathe and your body's response to that air. Breathing safety covers different aspects, depending on the environment.
Breathing Technique
There is literally an infinite variety of ways and rhythms to breathe, and any technique that gets the necessary oxygen to your bloodstream will get the job done. However, medical experts and athletes alike agree upon a best technique for breathing under normal circumstances. Breathe in deeply through your nose for as long as you can comfortably inhale, then exhale forcefully through your open mouth. This method increases your oxygen intake and can contribute to reduced stress and improved immunity. Note that this is for breathing under normal circumstances. Athletic performance and operating under stressors, such as high-G maneuvering, require different methods.
Exercise and Breathing
As you exercise, your body requires more oxygen to feed the muscles and processes that fuel the extra exertion. Two styles of breathing -- "fire breathing" and "ice breathing" -- can help improve performance in different athletic endeavors. Fire breathing is breathing in short, almost compact bursts. Exhale as your body expands and inhale as it contracts. Use fire breathing for power activities, such as jumping or lifting weights. Ice breathing is slow and leisurely, mostly quiet. Inhale to expand your body and exhale to contract. Use fire breathing for events that require long-term energy or where relaxation is important, such as cross country running.
Occupational Safety
Occupational breathing conditions can contribute to respiratory conditions, workplace injuries and even cancer. The federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration requires that employers must provide employees who work in hazardous breathing conditions supply masks that are rated for the environment in which the employees work. This can range from a simple face mask to a filtration system within a closed HAZMAT suit. The Coalition for Breathing Safety continues to lobby OSHA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to pass stricter requirements and take steps to ensure supply.
Environmental Safety
Being aware of your personal breathing environment is as important as your employer's awareness of breathing hazards at work. For most people, cleaning and home improvement projects are the places they most often come into contact with breathing hazards. Read the labels on any cleaning, painting or aerosol product to learn about their effects on your breathing safety. Always use noxious chemicals in a well-ventilated area. It's also a good idea to keep a stock of face masks on hand. Without them conveniently available, you're likely to go ahead without proper breathing filtration.
References
- Breathing Safety: Coalition for Breathing Safety
- "Yoga For a New Age"; Bob Smith; 1986
- OSHA: Standards for Respiratory Protection
