Effective Diaphragm Breathing
Learning how to do diaphragm breathing, and practicing it on a regular basis, will
help prevent shortness of breath. Normally, most of the work of breathing is done by
your diaphragm. Chronic lung disease sometimes causes the lungs to enlarge and the
diaphragm to flatten.
To do diaphragm breathing well, keep your abdominal muscles relaxed as you breathe
in. This gives your diaphragm more space to move down, allowing more air into your
lungs. When you exhale, tighten your abdominal muscles to force more air out.
1. Lie down or sit comfortably.
2. Loosen any tight clothing.
3. Place one hand over your belly button and the other one on your upper chest.
4. Sniff in. You should feel your abdominal muscles move in.
5. Exhale slowly through pursed lips.
6. Tighten your abdominal muscles and gently push your stomach in.
7. Slowly inhale and push your stomach out. You should feel the most movement
in your abdomen.
Diaphragm breathing takes practice and patience. Give yourself time to learn this
important technique. When you master this, y