Pursed-Lips Breathing (or Pursed Lip Breathing) is a simple Abdominal Breathing exercise that can help slow down breathing, counteract “shortness of breath,” improve the ability to perform physical activities or exercises, and reduce stress.
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The technique is carried out by slowly inhaling through the nose and slowly exhaling through pursed lips (the lips placed in a pouting gesture, like blowing on something, or blowing out a candle).
The exhale should take at least twice as long as the inhale. One can repeat this pattern as long as is needed.
Other benefits of Pursed-Lips Breathing include the release of trapped air in the lungs, decrease of breathing effort, promotion of better breathing patterns, and general relaxation.
Additionally, Pursed-Lips Breathing is thought to be helpful for people who have lung conditions that obstruct them to breathe easily. Think of people that suffer from asthma, bronchitis, or restrictive lung disease.
