Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a long-term, degenerative lung disease typically caused by smoking. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are types of COPD. Exercise is an essential part of managing COPD, because it improves your body's ability to use oxygen. According to the Canadian Lung Association, stretching and breathing exercises are a useful starting point if you'd like to reap the benefits of a daily exercise program.
Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines breathwork and stretching techniques, making it a beneficial form of exercise for people suffering from COPD. According to pain expert and psychologist Vijai P. Sharma in an article for Mind Publications, yoga can teach you optimal methods of breathing, helping you overcome breathing discomfort and helping you gain control of your breath. Some of the yogic techniques that can be useful for patients with COPD include breath training to slow and deepen your breath, diaphragmatic breathing and coordinating your breath with specific yoga stretches and postures. Yoga classes for people with chronic breathing problems are offered at many hospitals and yoga centers around the U.S.
Shortness of Breath Recovery Technique
According to the Canadian Lung Association, the following technique can help you recover from shortness of breath due to COPD. Sit in a comfortable chair with your back against the chair and your arms resting on your thighs, palms facing up. Roll your shoulders and chest forward and let your knees relax. Sit in this posture until you feel like your breath has returned to normal, then begin the pursed lip breathing technique.
Pursed Lip Breathing
Pursed lip breathing is a useful technique for recovering from shortness of breath due to COPD, according to the Canadian Lung Association. To perform this technique, sit in a comfortable position. Breathe in as deeply and slowly as you can, inhaling through your nose to a count of one. Pause briefly, then exhale out of your mouth with pursed lips -- as though you're giving someone a kiss -- as slowly as possible, mentally counting to two. Breathe in this manner until you feel that your breathing is easier and more relaxed.
Lunges
Gentle lunges are a beneficial way to stretch your legs and increase your range of motion, according to authors Kevin Felner, MD, and Meg Schneider in their book "COPD For Dummies." Hold on to a sturdy chair or another supportive surface. Step your right foot forward. Keeping your left leg as straight as possible, lower yourself by bending your right knee. Hold the stretch for a few seconds, then repeat on the opposite leg.
