How keeping active can improve your breathing

Sunday, June 24, 2018

It's Breathe Easy Week this week - a week to raise awareness for lung conditions affecting those in the UK.

If you suffer with a lung condition there are steps you can take towards improving your quality of life. And whilst you may feel nervous in doing more physical activity, some research suggests that it can be extremely beneficial.

Here we take a look at some of the benefits of being active:

1. Physically improves your muscles

From a physical perspective, being active can help to improve your muscles. Not only does it strengthen your arm and leg muscles, it can also increase strength in your breathing muscles which can ultimately improve circulation and your respiratory system.

2. Improved energy levels

It sounds strange, but by being more active you can actually improve your energy levels. The more active you become, the less tired you will feel doing certain exercises.

3. Reduces anxiety and depression

Feeling like you are forced to stay still and inactive can make you feel low, fed-up and anxious. By working to increase your activity levels, you will feel more energetic and reduce any symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Types of low impact activities to try if you suffer with breathing or lung conditions

Of course it is always best to consult your doctor before trying anything out of the ordinary, but if you are cleared to try activity then the following exercises could work for you:

- Walking for approximately 20 minutes a day
- Yoga for strengthening
- Dance classes - choose something with a low level of intensity