09/25/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2024 08:10
Your lungs have an essential role in helping your body function. Keeping them healthy makes it easier to get the oxygen you need. Keep reading to learn how you can keep your lungs functioning at their fullest capacity.
Causes of Low Lung Capacity
Lung capacity and efficiency often decrease with age, but other potential factors include:
3 Exercises to Increase Lung Capacity
While not all lung damage is reversible, certain breathing exercises can help expand your lung capacity so they can work more efficiently. Try the following exercises and you'll be on your way to breathing easier before you know it:
Alternate Nostril Breathing
In addition to increasing your lung capacity, breathing through alternate nostrils has other benefits, like easing anxiety and lowering blood pressure. To practice this technique, follow these steps:
Take your time with this exercise and don't rush your breathing. Although alternate nostril breathing is considered safe for most people and can help your lung capacity, you might find it difficult to take deep breaths, especially if you have a lung condition like COPD.
Diaphragmatic Breathing
Your diaphragm is known to do most of the heavy lifting in terms of breathing and diaphragmatic breathing - also known as "belly breathing" - helps strengthen your diaphragm. Here's how to practice diaphragmatic breathing:
Take note of how far your stomach rises as you breathe in through your nose and aim to breathe in until you feel your stomach rise higher than your chest. This breathing exercise may feel difficult when you first try it, but practice makes progress - diaphragmatic breathing becomes easier as you become more familiar with the practice and continue strengthening your diaphragm.
Pursed-Lips Breathing
Breathing through pursed lips can slow your breathing and make it easier for your lungs to function. This breathing exercise is great for beginners and can be practiced anytime. Here's what to do:
When pursed, your lips should be nearly touching, as if you were blowing out birthday candles or making a kissing gesture.
Tips to Maintain Healthy Lungs
Prevention is the best medicine, and keeping your lungs healthy now can help you avoid breathing issues later in life. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy lungs:
Helping You Breathe a Little Easier
We know life can feel heavy when you're having a tough time breathing. But remember, you're never alone. Our pulmonary experts are here to help you catch your breath and find relief. Learn more about our comprehensive pulmonary program and find a specialist near you.