Diaphragmatic breathing
Form of breathing done by contracting the diaphragm
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Diaphragmatic breathing, abdominal breathing, belly breathing, or deep breathing, is a breathing technique performed by contracting the diaphragm, a muscle located horizontally between the thoracic cavity and abdominal cavity.[1][2]
Definition
Diaphragmatic breathing involves using the diaphragm to take deep breaths, allowing the lungs to expand to full capacity and enable optimal efficiency for respiration.[2] Because diaphragmatic breathing causes descent of the diaphragm into the abdominal cavity, it is also called abdominal breathing or belly breathing.[1][2]
The method involves breathing in slowly through the nose, letting the air in deeply, then tightening the abdominal muscles while exhaling through pursed lips.[1][2]
Clinical applications
Diaphragmatic breathing is used as an adjunct intervention in several clinical contexts, particularly in people with respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.[1][2][3] Diaphragmatic breathing helps with shortness of breath in such affected people.[3] Evidence for its effectiveness in exercise tolerance by people with COPD is mixed.[3]
Diaphragmatic breathing exercises are used for cognitive behavioral therapy in people with anxiety disorders, stress, and panic disorder.[2][4] Diaphragmatic breathing may help with relaxation, lower blood pressure, and reduce heart rate.[1][2]
See also
- Buteyko method
- Circular breathing
- Kussmaul breathing
- Pranayama – a traditional Yogic practice of slowing and extending the breaths, used during meditation
- Shallow breathing – a type of breathing that is mutually exclusive to diaphragmatic breathing and is associated with multiple anxiety disorders
- Wim Hof method
- Complete breathing