Breathe Easier: 10 Amazing Activities Proven to Improve COPD Symptoms

2. Pursed Lip Breathing Exercises

Two types of breathing exercises can be done to treat COPD symptoms, improve lung strength, reduce shortness of breath, and help breathe easier: pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing. To practice pursed-lip breathing, relax the neck and shoulders. Breathe in through the nose for two seconds while keeping the mouth closed. Exhale for four seconds through pursed lips. Use this breathing technique up to four times a day when exercising or whenever there is shortness of breath.

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

To practice diaphragmatic breathing, lay down on the floor with bent knees. It may help to place a pillow under the knees for support. Place one hand on the stomach just below the rib cage and the other on the chest. Inhale through the nose for a count of three. While inhaling, the stomach and lower ribs should rise, but the chest should remain still. Tighten the stomach muscles and exhale for a count of six through lips that are slightly puckered.