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What are the Different Types of Breathing Exercises?

C. K. Lanz
C. K. Lanz

There are several different types of breathing exercises that generally fall into two categories: exercises that are relaxing and calming and exercises that are invigorating and energizing. Calming exercises typically bring in air slowly to expand the abdomen, followed by the diaphragm and lungs. The breathing is slowed as more air is exhaled than was inhaled. Energizing breathing exercises involve the rapid expansion of the lungs as the abdomen is pulled inward. Breaths are then held before being exhaled fast. Calming exercises quiet the body and mind, while energizing exercises are meant to raise the metabolism.

Calming breaths are common in yoga and meditation practices. Such exercises can also be useful when attempting to control stress, reduce anxiety or insulate from crisis. Calm breathing can be accomplished in nearly any environment without drawing any attention.

Deep breathing is a type of exercise used to lessen anxiety.
Deep breathing is a type of exercise used to lessen anxiety.

Breathing slowly and deeply through the nose followed by long exhalation through the mouth is a classic breathing exercise for relaxation. This exercise is often most effective in a quiet environment with closed eyes. Air is pulled into the abdomen that expands like a balloon and is exhaled to a count of ten. Breathing into the abdomen triggers the body to relax itself.

Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.

Quick belly breaths are additional breathing exercises commonly performed for relaxation. Once again the breather pulls air into the abdomen and feels it expand with his or her hands. The lungs follow. The air is then exhaled in a series of short bursts rather than one long stream.

The mind should be still when performing calming exercises. The body should go limp like a wet noodle or feel as though it were melting into a puddle. No thoughts should intrude during these exercises. Relaxing breathing exercises are a useful means of interrupting and stopping negative thoughts.

Proper breathing while holding yoga poses ensures that the body's muscles receive adequate oxygen.
Proper breathing while holding yoga poses ensures that the body's muscles receive adequate oxygen.

A series of three or four short breaths followed by one long breath is an exercise that can be use to quickly energize the body. Both the short breaths and the long one should be deep. This exercise can help perk people up when they tend to lose energy in mid afternoon.

Incorporating arm movement into these exercises can increase lung capacity and metabolism as well. Holding objects, waving arms or doing figure eights in the air while taking regular breaths can be invigorating. Breathing into the lungs while pulling the abdomen inward also can produce a similar effect.

The mind should be still when performing calming breathing exercises.
The mind should be still when performing calming breathing exercises.

Some people may feel dizzy or light headed while performing breathing exercises. The exercises should be stopped under these circumstances. Individuals interested in incorporating breathing exercises into their routines should consult with a medical practitioner if there are any concerns or health conditions that may be aggravated.

Discussion Comments

Heavanet

I like to do breathing exercises while walking briskly. This helps me focus while I take laps, and increases my energy level.

Talentryto

A good way to incorporate breathing exercises into a relaxation regimen is to combine them with muscle relaxation. The best way to do this is to focus on all the muscles in the body while taking long, deep breathes.

Stretch out on the floor in a comfortable, quiet room. Close your eyes and begin taking deep breaths. Exhale slowly to the count of 10 seconds, and keep repeating these types of breaths. As you take in air, focus on each muscle, one at a time, from your head to your toes. Tighten and relax each one until you have done this with each muscle in your body while you continue breathing and exhaling.

Though this routine may sounds simple, you will be surprised at how relaxed it will make you feel. You may even find yourself dosing off as you take in deep, relaxing breaths.

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    • Deep breathing is a type of exercise used to lessen anxiety.
      By: bertys30
      Deep breathing is a type of exercise used to lessen anxiety.
    • Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
      By: byheaven
      Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
    • Proper breathing while holding yoga poses ensures that the body's muscles receive adequate oxygen.
      By: Syda Productions
      Proper breathing while holding yoga poses ensures that the body's muscles receive adequate oxygen.
    • The mind should be still when performing calming breathing exercises.
      By: Antonioguillem
      The mind should be still when performing calming breathing exercises.