Most people don’t think much about breathing until it becomes difficult. For those with COPD, asthma, or other chronic lung conditions, simple tasks like walking, getting dressed, or preparing meals can be exhausting.
Medications, oxygen, and equipment are important, but daily habits also play a major role in how your lungs function. Small, steady changes can help you breathe easier, conserve energy, and feel more confident each day.
At LPT Medical, we believe better breathing is about more than just treatment. It’s about building routines that support comfort, independence, and a good quality of life. This guide shares practical tips—especially breathing exercises and pacing strategies—to help you get the most out of every breath.
Chronic lung conditions often lead to:
Shortness of breath during activity
Fatigue and low endurance
Anxiety related to breathing difficulty
Reduced physical activity over time
When breathing feels difficult, it’s natural to want to move less. However, inactivity can weaken breathing muscles and reduce stamina, worsening symptoms over time.
Healthy daily habits help you work with your lungs by making breathing easier and conserving energy throughout the day.
Breathing exercises are an effective way to manage shortness of breath. Practicing them regularly can help your body use oxygen more efficiently, reduce trapped air, and give you greater control over your breathing.
Pursed-lip breathing slows your breathing, keeps airways open longer, and can help reduce shortness of breath—especially during activity.
How to practice:
Breathe in slowly through your nose for two seconds
Purse your lips as if you’re blowing out a candle
Breathe out gently for four seconds
When to use it:
During physical activity
When climbing stairs
When feeling short of breath or anxious
Actionable Tip: Practice pursed-lip breathing daily so it becomes second nature when you need it most.
This exercise strengthens your diaphragm and reduces reliance on chest muscles, which can fatigue quickly.
How to practice:
Sit or lie comfortably
Place one hand on your chest and one on your abdomen
Breathe in through your nose, feeling your belly rise
Breathe out slowly through pursed lips, feeling your belly fall
Tip: Practice for 5 to 10 minutes, once or twice a day.
Matching your breathing to your movements can help reduce breathlessness during daily activities.
Examples:
Inhale before standing up; exhale as you stand
Exhale during the effort part of lifting or reaching
Tip: Use pursed-lip breathing during the most demanding part of any activity.
Activity pacing means spreading your energy throughout the day instead of using it all at once.
Overexertion can lead to:
Increased shortness of breath
Longer recovery times
Frustration and reduced motivation
Pacing helps you stay active while protecting your lungs.
1. Break tasks into smaller steps
Instead of cleaning an entire room at once, divide it into sections and rest between each one.
2. Schedule activities wisely
Plan more demanding tasks for times when you have the most energy—often earlier in the day.
3. Rest before you’re exhausted
Take short breaks before breathing becomes difficult, rather than waiting until symptoms worsen.
4. Sit when possible
Sit while dressing, cooking, or showering to conserve energy.
Tip: Use a timer to remind yourself to take breaks during longer tasks.
Staying active helps keep muscles strong and improves breathing efficiency over time.
Short walks at a comfortable pace
Gentle stretching
Chair exercises
Light resistance training (as approved by your healthcare provider)
Tip: Focus on consistency, not intensity—even 5 to 10 minutes at a time can be beneficial.
Shortness of breath can increase anxiety, and anxiety can make breathing even more difficult.
Practice breathing exercises during calm moments
Use relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or guided imagery
Focus on slow, controlled breathing during flare-ups
Actionable Tip: Remind yourself that controlled breathing can help restore calm and improve control.
Your home environment plays an important role in breathing comfort.
Keep indoor air clean and well-ventilated
Avoid smoke, strong fragrances, and harsh cleaning products
Maintain comfortable humidity levels
Keep frequently used items within easy reach to reduce exertion
Getting Dressed
Sit down while dressing
Choose loose, comfortable clothing
Cooking
Prepare ingredients while seated
Use lightweight cookware
Bathing
Use a shower chair
Keep the water warm, but not hot
Tip: Even small adjustments can make daily tasks much easier on your breathing.
If your doctor has prescribed oxygen, it’s important to use it exactly as directed—even during rest or light activity.
Skipping oxygen can:
Increase strain on the heart and lungs
Worsen fatigue and breathlessness
Tip: Make sure your oxygen tubing is long enough to allow comfortable movement around your home.
At LPT Medical, we’re committed to helping you breathe easier. We do this not only by providing high-quality oxygen equipment, such as home and portable oxygen concentrators, but also through education and ongoing support.
We understand that better breathing comes from daily habits, personalized care, and having the right tools to help you stay independent and confident.
You don’t need to make major changes to improve your breathing. Simple exercises, smart pacing, and supportive routines can help you feel less short of breath and more in control of your day.
When these habits are combined with proper medical care and reliable equipment, each day can feel more comfortable—and every breath a little easier.
If you need personalized support with breathing or oxygen therapy, contact LPT Medical today.