3 Breathing Exercises to Improve Airflow and Support Lung Health

Breathing should feel effortless, but for people living with asthma or other respiratory conditions, it can often feel strained or uncomfortable. When asthma causes the airways to tighten, the lungs are unable to fill and empty as efficiently as they should. This can lead to chest tightness, shallow breathing, and the sensation of working harder just to get enough air.

When breathing becomes inefficient, the diaphragm — the primary muscle responsible for breathing — may not be able to do most of the work. As a result, muscles in the chest, neck, and back begin to compensate. This increased effort can still result in less oxygen intake, making everyday activities more difficult and leaving people feeling fatigued or short of breath.

Pulmonary specialists often recommend breathing exercises as a way to calm the respiratory system, improve airflow, and support healthier breathing patterns. While these techniques should never replace prescribed medications, they can be a helpful addition to a comprehensive asthma or lung care plan.

Breathing exercises are designed to slow the breathing rate, encourage deeper breaths, and improve coordination between the lungs and diaphragm. By practicing controlled breathing, patients may be able to reduce feelings of breathlessness, improve oxygen exchange, and decrease reliance on accessory muscles that make breathing feel like work. Over time, these techniques can help breathing feel more natural and less forced.

1. Pursed-Lip Breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is commonly recommended during moments of shortness of breath. This technique helps slow breathing and keeps airways open longer, allowing more air to move in and out of the lungs. To practice pursed-lip breathing, inhale slowly through your nose and then exhale through your mouth with your lips gently pursed, as if you were blowing out a candle. The exhale should be about twice as long as the inhale. Repeating these slow, controlled breaths can help restore a more comfortable breathing rhythm and improve airflow.

2. Belly (Diaphragmatic) Breathing

Belly breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, focuses on strengthening the diaphragm and reducing dependence on the muscles of the chest and neck. To practice this technique, sit or lie down in a comfortable position and place your hands on your abdomen. As you inhale through your nose, focus on feeling your belly rise beneath your hands. As you exhale slowly through your mouth, allow your belly to fall back toward its resting position. Practicing diaphragmatic breathing for several minutes each day may help improve breathing efficiency and reduce the sensation of breathlessness.

3. Yoga Breathing Techniques

Yoga breathing techniques may also support lung health, especially for people with asthma. Research suggests that individuals who regularly practice yoga experience fewer asthma attacks and may rely less on fast-acting inhalers. Many yoga practices emphasize slow, controlled breathing, which can help strengthen respiratory muscles and promote relaxation. If you are new to yoga, it is important to begin with a beginner-level class and inform your instructor about your asthma or respiratory condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding yoga or new breathing practices to your routine.

An Important Reminder About Asthma Care

Breathing exercises are meant to complement, not replace, medications prescribed by your doctor. Always continue taking your asthma or respiratory medications exactly as directed. If you are unsure which breathing techniques are appropriate for your condition, a pulmonary specialist can help you safely incorporate them into your treatment plan.

Expert Care for Better Breathing

From advanced diagnostics to interventional procedures, sleep medicine, chronic disease management, and long-term respiratory support, our team at the Ferrer Pulmonary Institute is dedicated to helping every patient breathe easier with clarity, confidence, and compassionate guidance.

If you have questions about your lung health, need a specialist, or want to learn more about the services we provide, visit pulmonary-institute.com to schedule an appointment or explore our programs.

For tips on lung health, behind-the-scenes education, and updates from our care team, follow Ferrer Pulmonary Institute on Instagram @ferrerinstitute. Your path to better breathing begins with understanding, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.