Deep Breathing Exercises That Improve Lung Health

First of all, we must remember that the lungs are two organs of the respiratory system that are responsible for the exchange of gases with the outside. In each inspiration, the blood becomes oxygenated and transports these molecules to all the tissues of the body, while the carbon dioxide passes from the blood to the lungs and is released to the outside. An average adult breathes, approximately 20 times per minute.

Breathing is vital. Now, there is a way to get even more benefits from this action and that is through deep breathing.

Diaphragmatic breathing

Diaphragmatic or abdominal breathing is highly recommended, as it can provide multiple health benefits. Inspired by it, there are people (yoga teachers, for example) who have decided to teach their students some techniques and exercises that improve lung health.

María del Mar Medina, psychologist and blogger at Vivisinansimonio explains:

So deep breathing can help relieve stress and anxiety, as well as provide other benefits to your overall health.

Exercises to improve your lung health

Here are the exercises that help improve lung health.

• Before you begin, move slowly, move your arms and legs, and do some stretches. This will prepare the body.

Exercise to cleanse and improve nasal breathing

Breathing through the mouth dries out the mucous membranes and causes breathing difficulties. As suggested, this exercise could help clean and warm the air before it reaches the lungs.

Sitting, with your back straight and legs crossed, inhale through one nostril, while keeping the other closed with one finger. Exhale the air slowly and repeat about 20 times with each nostril.

Exercise to facilitate breathing

This exercise is said to help open up your lungs. Stand with your arms on either side of your body. Inhale through your nose for three short breaths, and raise your arms above your head. Exhale through your mouth, while lowering your arms to the sides. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times.

Exercise to improve the health of the respiratory muscles of the chest and abdomen

Although there is no evidence of this, this exercise could help to achieve more efficient breathing and the strengthening of the respiratory muscles of the chest, back and abdomen.

Lie on your back with your hands resting on your lower abdomen and inhale deeply through your nose. Feel your belly rise. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. Repeat 20 to 25 times.

Remember that the exercises described here are not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult with a specialist if you have problems related to lung health.