Summary Respiratory Rehabilitation Program: Ways to control your breathing

Breathing Training What does breathing training do? • Moves stale air and carbon dioxide out of the lungs • Moves fresh air and oxygen into the lungs • Helps control shortness of breath at rest and with activity • Helps remove mucous from your lungs Pursed lip breathing (PLB) • Breathe in slowly through your nose and count – 1 and 2. • Purse or pucker your lips as if you were going to whistle. • Breathe out gently though your pursed lips and count slowly – 1 and 2 and 3 and 4. • Do not force the air out of your lungs. • There are a few ways to do this type of breathing. The physiotherapist will help you find the best way for you. Deep or Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing • Place one hand on your abdomen just under your breastbone. • Slowly breathe in through your nose and feel your belly rise into your hand. • Slowly breathe out through pursed lips and feel your belly fall away from your hand. • Keep your shoulders relaxed - not hunched up. • Do this sitting or lying in a comfortable position. Rib Breathing • Flatten your hands on the lower part of your rib cage. • Breathe in through your nose and feel your ribs move outward. • Breathe out and feel your ribs flatten. 3 Breathing Exercises Why do these exercises? • To promote a proper breathing pattern • To help you relax • To improve your flexibility Remember . . . • Do these exercises EVERY day. Go at your own pace. • Breathe out through pursed lips as you move. • Listen to your body, do what you feel is comfortable; not every exercise is for every body! • Keep a proper sitting posture:  feet flat on the floor  back supported (rolled towel if needed)  shoulders relaxed The Exercises 1. Deep or Diaphragmatic Belly Breathing • Place one hand on your abdomen just under your breastbone. • Slowly breathe in through your nose and feel your belly rise into your hand. • Slowly breathe out through pursed lips and feel your belly fall away from your hand. • Keep your shoulders relaxed - not hunched up. • Do this sitting or lying in a comfortable position. • Repeat 5 times.