3 Best Exercises to Improve Lung Function

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 2 mins read

The lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that supply oxygen to the body and remove carbon dioxide. They are an important part of the respiratory system. However, the increasing pollution and exposure to toxins directly impact them. Add to that underlying respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, etc. that harm the lungs. Thus, it’s important to care for them.

Exercise is one of the best ways to improve their function and keep them in the pink of health. But what exercises are good for them? You might have this question. This guide will briefly discuss the exercises you should include in your regimen for healthy lungs and a healthy you.

Belly breathing

Also known as diaphragmatic exercise, this is one of the best exercises for people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), which affects the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. When you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and flattens. And when you exhale, the diaphragm comes into its normal shape.

Belly exercise primarily involves the activity of the diaphragm. It can help strengthen this muscle and ease your symptoms.

How to do it?

• Lie down on a flat surface.
• Relax your shoulders and close your eyes.
• Place one hand on the chest and another on the belly.
• Inhale through your nose and feel the air moving towards the abdomen.
• Feel the stomach moving out. The stomach should move out more than the chest.
• Exhale through pursed lips and press the abdomen.
• Repeat this for 5 to 10 minutes daily.

Pursed-lips breathing

This is an effective approach to make your breathing more effective by making it slower and more intentional. This is a simple exercise, especially for beginners.

How to do it?

• Sit in a comfortable position
• Inhale through the nose.
• Purse your lips like you are pouting or blowing on something.
• Breathe out through pursed lips slowly.
• Repeat this process.

Alternate nostril breathing

You may know this famous exercise where you breathe through one nostril while closing the other. Then, exhale from the nostril you closed while breathing. Switch and repeat the process while being aware of your breath.

How to do it?

• Sit comfortably on a flat surface.
• Gently press your left nostril by the side through your fingers to close it.
• Inhale through the right nostril.
• Now, close the right nostril by the side through your fingers while releasing the finger from the left nostril.
• Exhale from the left nostril.
• Repeat this process for 5 to 10 minutes.

Takeaway!

Lung health is a very important aspect of overall wellness. If you are experiencing any lung problems, discuss it with your doctor. At Aakash Healthcare, we have a team of experienced and trusted pulmonology experts who are well-trained in treating a range of lung respiratory diseases, from mild to complex. Consult now!