New Delhi: Breath control is a vital aspect of our respiratory health, yet it often goes unnoticed until we face challenges. Practicing techniques like diaphragmatic breathing can significantly improve lung function, reduce stress, and enhance our overall well-being. For those managing chronic conditions such as asthma or COPD, mastering breath control can be a real turning point in how they handle their symptoms.
While talking about the same, Dr Shubham Sharma, Consultant Pulmonologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, detailed the process of diaphragmatic breathing and listed its pros and cons.
What is diaphragmatic breathing?
Diaphragmatic breathing, sometimes called belly breathing, focuses on using the diaphragm—a dome-shaped muscle just beneath our lungs. Unlike shallow chest breathing, which only engages the upper chest and leads to shorter, less satisfying breaths, diaphragmatic breathing allows us to take deeper, fuller breaths. This technique not only increases the oxygen we take in but also helps our body exchange gases more effectively, making breathing feel easier and more natural.
How to practice diaphragmatic breathing?
Getting started with diaphragmatic breathing is straightforward and can be done almost anywhere. Here’s a simple way to practice:
Find a comfortable position: Lie on your back with your knees bent. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
Focus on breathing: Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your belly rise while your chest stays still.
Exhale gently: Breathe out through pursed lips, noticing your abdomen fall.
Repeat: Try to practice this for 5–10 minutes each day to strengthen your diaphragm and improve lung capacity.
Benefits for lung health
Better oxygen intake: Diaphragmatic breathing allows you to take deeper breaths, increasing the oxygen your body receives.
Enhanced lung function: This technique can improve lung capacity, especially beneficial for those with chronic conditions. A stronger diaphragm means more efficient breathing and less strain on other muscles.
Reduced breathlessness: For those with COPD or asthma, shortness of breath can be unsettling. Diaphragmatic breathing helps stabilise breathing patterns, reducing episodes of breathlessness.
Stress relief: Controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of calm. Since stress can worsen respiratory issues, learning effective breathing techniques is essential for managing both mental and physical health.
Improved recovery: After an illness or lung infection, practicing breath control can help restore lung function and prevent complications. It’s also useful after surgery to improve lung expansion and avoid issues like atelectasis (lung collapse).
Complementary techniques
Alongside diaphragmatic breathing, other techniques like pursed-lip breathing, deep breathing exercises, and controlled coughing can also support lung health. These methods can help those with obstructive pulmonary diseases by clearing mucus, improving airflow, and strengthening respiratory muscles.
Conclusion
Breath control is a simple yet powerful practice that can make a significant difference in lung health. For individuals managing chronic conditions, it can be a transformative tool for alleviating symptoms and enhancing quality of life. By incorporating techniques like diaphragmatic breathing into daily routines, anyone can breathe easier, face fewer respiratory challenges, and improve their overall well-being.
Alongside diaphragmatic breathing, other techniques like pursed-lip breathing, deep breathing exercises, and controlled coughing can also support lung health. These methods can help those with obstructive pulmonary diseases by clearing mucus, improving airflow, and strengthening respiratory muscles. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
