-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
exercise
breathing exercises
physical medicine

definition

breathing exercises

1. lie on back, relax with head slightly elevated and knees and hips slightly flexed (exercises may be done sitting up instead)
a. inhale through nose, exhale through mouth by contracting abdominal muscles
b. avoid raising chest and avoid contraction of neck muscles
c. take two to three times as long to exhale as to inhale (take about 4 sec.)
d. breathe slowly, smoothly and rhythmically without tension
e. practice breathing in this position for 5-10 minutes daily
2. practice breathing the same way as above, lying on each side with knees flexed
3. practice breathing the same way sitting, standing and walking
4. lie on back, knees raised, relax, exhale and hold breath; while holding breath, push the abdomen out and draw it in and up, hold breath as long as possible
a. then breathe regularly for a few minutes
b. repeat up to 10 times daily

see also:
qigong: introduction
qigong: basic stance
qigong: essentials of breathing
qigong: overview and uses


footnotes