Your heart and brain get all the credit for being your body’s powerhouses. But what about your lungs? There’s nothing like taking a deep breath of fresh air or heaving a big sigh as you finally kick your feet up on the couch at the end of a long day. None of this would be possible without your lungs; unfortunately, lung function can decrease as we age. The good news: There are some easy things you can do to strengthen them. Keep reading for three simple, science-backed tips to boost your lung health.
1. Nose Breathing
Inhaling through your nose triggers the sinuses to release nitric oxide. And that’s key, says Healthline, because the compound travels deep into your lungs, where it improves blood circulation, thus increasing your oxygen absorption and even strengthening your immune system. If you have trouble breathing nasally, try this belly breathing exercise from Healthline. Added bonus? It relieves stress, too.
- Sit up tall or lay flat.
- Relax shoulders and close mouth.
- Place one hand on chest, the other on your belly.
- Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your belly to fill with air and rise. Your chest shouldn’t move.
- Exhale slowly through pursed lips.
- Repeat for 5-10…
