What is Breathing Exercises to Increase Lungs Capacity?
All cells need oxygen for metabolic function, and the body cannot survive without it. The lungs are a crucial component of a larger system that transports oxygen across the body. Exercising your breathing improves your body's ability to absorb and use this element. Improved lung capacity also protects you from being sick. From the moment we are born until we die, our breath is with us. We, on the other hand, take our lungs and breathing for granted. Lung volumes and capacities are better indicators of our lung functions. Lung volumes and capacities are physiological terms that refer to the amount of air held in our lungs at various levels of inspiration or expiration. Our lung capacity and function gradually decline as we get older, usually starting in our mid-20s.
Benefits of Doing Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are an integral part of yoga not just because they help to relax the mind, but also because they have a slew of other advantages, including the following:
- Detoxify the body
- Improve oxygenation
- Help you relax
- Reduce Stress
- Improve Concentration
- Improve Energy Levels
- Help you Sleep Better
Breathing Exercises to Increase Lungs Capacity
Diaphragmatic Breathing
The diaphragm, a muscle located between the abdomen and the lung, is essential for breathing. People with COPD, on the other hand, appear to rely on accessory muscles in the back, shoulders, and neck rather than the diaphragm. Diaphragmatic breathing improves the efficiency of the muscle. Sit with your back against a wall or lie down. One hand should be on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale deeply through your nose. Make sure your stomach moves outward while your chest stays still while doing this form of breathing. Your stomach should shift inwards when you exhale slowly for two seconds.
Huff Cough
When you have a chronic respiratory infection, mucus appears to build up quickly. The huff cough is a breathing method that can help you expand your lung capacity. It makes it easier to cough up mucus without putting too much strain on your lungs or leaving you tired. Make a comfortable sitting spot for yourself. Inhale more deeply than normal. Blowing the air out in three even breaths while making the sounds "ha, ha, ha" with the aid of your tummy muscles. As if you were blowing on a mirror to make it steam.
Deep Breathing
One of the most effective exercises for increasing lung capacity is deep breathing. It keeps oxygen from being trapped in the lungs, allowing you to breathe normally.
Pursued Lip Breathing
This specific breathing technique for increasing lung capacity has been shown to encourage relaxation and release trapped air from the lungs while alleviating symptoms including breathlessness and trouble breathing. Continue to sit in the same place as before. Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale slowly through pursed lips, as if pouting or about to blow something on something. Breathing out should take at least twice as long as breathing in.
Simhasan
Cross your ankles and get down on all fours. Have your fingers spread wide and your palms ahead of your knees. Keep your eyes wide open and inhale deeply through your nose. Open your mouth and stick out your tongue, pulling the tip down towards your chin at the same time. When you exhale out of your mouth while making a long "ha" sound, contract the muscles at the front of your throat and feel the air flow through it. You can focus on the area between your brows or the tip of your nose if you want to. Repeat this breath 2–3 times.
Rib Stretch Breathing
Exhale to your full capacity when standing upright. Then slowly inhale, trying to fill the lungs as much as possible. Exhale slowly and return to a comfortable position after holding your breath for 10-20 seconds, or as long as you are able.
How to Strengthen Lungs Naturally?
- Quit smoking and don't let anyone smoke around you.
- Pollutants, dust, and mould can all be avoided.
- To prevent diseases and the flu, practise good hygiene.
- Maintain a healthy level of activity by engaging in moderate exercise at least 3-4 times per week.
- To protect yourself from the effects of air pollution, put on a face mask before going outside.
Takeaway
Lung exercises like pursed lip breathing and belly breathing can improve a person's lung function. However, before beginning any new exercise, including a breathing exercise, it is a good idea to consult with a physician. This is particularly true for those who have underlying health problems like COPD. The doctor may make suggestions to ensure that the patient achieves the best possible outcomes.