Better Breathing Blog by PowerLung

Summer vacation is fast approaching. Although you likely have a training regime well underway, the warm weather leads to visions of morning runs, bike rides, and workouts as athletes consider scorching heat. With kids out of school, this is also the most popular time for family vacations, which (although fun) can wreak havoc on your fitness routine and plans. It is easy to lose hope that you can maintain your fitness level during these interruptions, but never fear…there ARE tools which not only prevent you from losing what you’ve gained, but some which can be taken with you on vacation, boosting your confidence while relaxing on the beach, by the pool, or visiting your favorite parks and historical cities!

There has been a nationwide resurgence in running, and running clubs are organizing all over the country. Technology has allowed for drastic improvement of running shoes, accessories, and even jogging strollers, making the activity easier to take up than ever before. And why not? Running is a sport that can be continued throughout one’s lifetime, anywhere, at any time. As family-oriented races pop up in many large and small cities alike, it is the perfect time to consider training for—and entering—a race as a family.

Swimming is an undeniably valuable type of aerobic exercise, but it can be intimidating to start. Many adults took standard swim lessons offered at the local pool as children, and some children may even excel at the sport, while others just “get by.” A few may even join a swim team; however, most adults give up on swimming and water activities in general. But water exercise comes in different forms and has a variety of benefits which should be considered when looking for an enjoyable fitness activity, and something one can share with other adults and children alike.

Physically active vacations have exploded in popularity. Diving in the cenotes, ziplining in the Amazon, and climbing in the Alps are all trips which at one time were an activity done during a vacation and are now the focus of the vacation. As busy families look for ways to connect and unplug, sports-focused trips continue to prove a perfect opportunity for adults and children to stay physically fit while enjoying a new location and each other. Mountain biking, therefore, is a perfect mix of this; with a combination of skills most family members have mastered (bicycling) and the beauty of nature or the wonder of a new place.

Anyone diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may understand the breathing challenges that come with walking to the mailbox or up a flight of stairs. While medications can help manage the condition, they cannot cure it. To find relief, many physicians recommend patients engage in breathing exercises. This post will focus on breathing for COPD and breathing techniques that can strengthen lung capacity and stave off symptoms, including using a device such as the PowerLung.

Correct breathing is underestimated, and over time, the (bad) habit poor breathing habits, combined with many hours spent hunched over a computer screen, the desire to have a trim midsection (sucking in the tummy) and the continual state of stress and hurry which many teenagers and adults experience, have all contributed to shallow breathing becoming the “norm.” It may not seem like a big deal, but you’re only filling a fraction of your lung capacity. Shallow breathing affects focus, cell metabolism, and many other functions in the body. Let’s investigate the problems with shallow breathing and how you can learn to breathe more deeply for better health through breathing exercises.

We all know there are many methods (but few secrets) to lose weight and improve fitness. From running to biking, swimming to Tai Bo, hiking to water aerobics, there is no limit to the variation of athletic activities which can be performed to help participants lose weight. But what you might not know is that the simple act of breathing can help you lose weight as well. Now, before you stand there and start hyperventilating by over-exerting yourself, there is more to it. Nothing replaces dedication and willpower. But it may give you some confidence that you can add to your weight lose plan by focusing on the way you breathe. Simply changing the manner in which you breathe on a regular basis will improve your metabolism and help motive you during weight loss. Even if you have a regular exercise routine, this provides added value for those times when you are unable to work out.

It has long been touted that exercise improves brain function, and this concept has been used widely to support a recent drive to increase physical activity and save recess in schools. However, the benefits go well beyond school age years, and evidence supports the importance of regular physical exercise throughout life. It is a universally accepted understanding that regular exercise is good for the body. However, more and more research is being released showing the benefits to the brain as well. If you are considering starting an exercise regimen, training for a sporting event, or simply want to improve your health, here is some interesting science behind the connection, and a few of the useful facts about regular physical exercise and mental improvement:

Although the CDC recommends 2.5 hours of aerobic activity and 2 days of strength training per week, you certainly don’t have to spend that time in a gym or in only 2-3 hardcore workouts. In fact, exercise can be defined as any activity that elevates your heart rate. You don’t have to wear expensive workout clothing or buy specialized equipment to participate. There are many activities you participate in every day which can be considered exercise!

This time of year, many people are considering resolutions, and looking for ways to improve their lives. From weight loss to eating more natural foods, from reducing screen time to improving organization, optimism is high as new habits are formed. Many people look for ways to improve health, and even slow down the aging process. One area that is simply overlooked, and even easier to care for, is the respiratory system.