Belly breathing (also called diaphragmatic breathing) is a great technique for managing shortness of breath with COPD. It's a bit more advanced than pursed lip breathing, so practicing with a healthcare provider first is a good idea.
Here's how to do it:
1. Get comfortable — lie on your back or recline in a chair
2. Place Show Full Answer
Belly breathing (also called diaphragmatic breathing) is a great technique for managing shortness of breath with COPD. It's a bit more advanced than pursed lip breathing, so practicing with a healthcare provider first is a good idea.
Here's how to do it:
1. Get comfortable — lie on your back or recline in a chair
2. Place one hand on your chest and the other just below your ribs
3. Breathe in slowly through your nose, focusing on making the hand on your belly rise — your chest should stay still
4. Exhale through pursed lips, letting the hand on your belly fall
5. Repeat for 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times a day (or as your doctor recommends)
Over time, try practicing in different positions — sitting, standing, or even while doing other activities.
The goal is to use your diaphragm (the large muscle beneath your lungs) rather than the muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders. This makes breathing more efficient and can really help ease that feeling of breathlessness.
August 4
I used to do those things a lot when I was singing and I had to build up the power in my voice.
August 4
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