Certain exercises can help you breathe easier, whether you suffer from a chronic obstructive pulmonary breathing disorder, often become short of breath due to anxiety or panic disorder, or just have occasional difficulty breathing. According to the Canadian Lung Association, breathing exercises can help you regain your breath, relax and stay calm.
Pursed Lip Breathing
Pursed lip breathing is a beneficial technique that can help you calm down if you feel short of breath. Inhale through your nose, then purse your lips, as though you're about to whistle or kiss someone, and exhale slowly. Try to make your exhalations longer than your inhalations. Continue to breathe in this manner until your breath rate returns to normal.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing is a technique that you can use to relax and regain your breath. Place your right hand on your abdomen and your left hand on your chest. Just observe your breath for a few seconds, noticing the rise and fall of your chest and abdomen. Slowly inhale through your nose, filling your belly, then your chest, with air. Pause at the top of your inhalation for a few seconds. Exhale out of your mouth, emptying the air out of your chest, then your abdomen. Continue to breathe like this for a few minutes, until you feel calmer and more relaxed.
Alternate Nostril Breathing
Alternate nostril breathing is a yogic technique that can induce states of deep calm and relaxation. According to author David Frawley in his book, "Neti: Healing Secrets of Yoga and Ayurveda," alternate nostril breathing is an effective way to strengthen your breathing capacity and the muscles in your nostrils. To practice this exercise, close your right nostril with the thumb of your right hand. Inhale through your left nostril and exhale out of this nostril. Then close your left nostril with the middle finger of your right hand and open your right nostril. Inhale and exhale through your right nostril. Continue to breathe through alternate nostrils for a few minutes.
Breath Counting
Breath counting is a zen meditation technique that helps to slow down the mind and body, soothing anxiety and feelings of panic and making it easier for you to breathe. Sit in a cross-legged position or in a chair with a straight back. Align your head and neck with your spine. Rest your hands on your knees. Close your eyes and take a long inhalation through your nose. Exhale out of your nose and mentally count "one." Repeat this exercise, mentally counting "two" on your next exhale. Count to 10. When you reach a count of 10, return to one. Repeat the entire cycle for 10 minutes.
