Managing asthma and shortness of breath can feel like a constant battle. Whether you’re dealing with eosinophilic asthma, severe asthma, or chronic asthma, finding effective ways to breathe easier is crucial. While medications like Flonase, Nucala, Dupixent, Fasenra, Stiolto, and Spiriva can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, incorporating breathing exercises can also provide significant relief. Here, we’ll explore five breathing exercises that can help you manage your asthma symptoms and improve your quality of life.

1. Diaphragmatic breathing

Also known as belly breathing, diaphragmatic breathing focuses on strengthening the diaphragm, a key muscle in the respiratory process. To practice this exercise, sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise while keeping your chest still. Exhale slowly through pursed lips, feeling your abdomen fall. This exercise helps improve lung capacity and encourages more efficient breathing, making it particularly beneficial for those with chronic asthma.

2. Pursed-lip breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a simple technique that can help control shortness of breath and increase oxygen intake. To begin, inhale slowly through your nose for a count of two. Then, purse your lips as if you’re about to whistle and exhale gently through them for a count of four. This method helps slow down your breathing, keeping your airways open longer and reducing the effort it takes to breathe. It’s especially helpful during flare-ups of severe asthma when you need to regain control over your breathing.

3. Buteyko breathing

Developed by Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, this method focuses on reducing hyperventilation and increasing carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Start by sitting comfortably and taking a normal breath in through your nose. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. The goal is to maintain a calm and steady rhythm, avoiding deep or fast breaths. This exercise can help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, offering a natural complement to medications like Nucala or Dupixent.

4. Yoga breathing (Pranayama)

Yoga offers a variety of breathing techniques, or pranayama, that can help improve respiratory function. One popular method is the alternate nostril breathing exercise. Sit in a comfortable position, close your right nostril with your thumb, and inhale deeply through your left nostril. Close your left nostril with your ring finger, release your thumb, and exhale through your right nostril. Repeat the process, alternating sides. This exercise promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances lung function, making it a great addition to any asthma management plan.

5. Resonant breathing

Resonant breathing, also known as coherent breathing, involves taking slow, deep breaths at a rate of about five breaths per minute. To practice, inhale for a count of five and exhale for a count of five, maintaining a steady rhythm. This technique helps balance the autonomic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. It’s an excellent exercise for those with eosinophilic asthma, as it can help minimize inflammation and improve overall respiratory health.

Incorporating these breathing exercises into your daily routine can offer significant benefits for managing asthma and shortness of breath. Remember, while these techniques are helpful, they should complement, not replace, your prescribed medications like Flonase, Fasenra, or Spiriva. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your asthma management plan. With the right combination of medication and breathing exercises, you can breathe easier and enjoy a more active lifestyle.