Mindful Breathing Eases COPD Symptoms

I'm surprised at how many people I know who are suffering from COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Sure, most of them are from my parents generation, but you may know a few yourself. In our book "Perfect Breathing" we detailed a few studies that showed that conscious, intentional breathing could significantly reduce the effects of COPD and improve the quality of life for those who are afflicted.

One of the problems for people with COPD is that the airways collapse before the exhale is completed. This traps stale air in the lungs. Dr. Paul G. Donohue recently reprinted a pursed lip breathing technique that creates some back pressure and helps to keep the airways from collapsing before the exhale is complete allowing for a better, more cleansing breath.

If you know anyone who suffers from COPD, do them a favor and have them read Dr. Donohue's column.

health science