Breathing Exercises For Teens with Asthma

Dealing with asthma as a teen sucks. I know. I did when I was a teen. I know it’s annoying to have to carry an inhaler and worry about losing control of your breath.  If you’re dealing with asthma right now, this post is for you. You’ll learn about simple ways that teens with asthma can thrive.

In this post, I will introduce you to a natural approach that can help you manage your asthma symptoms and take better control of your breathing. Together, we are about to explore the world of breathing exercises, particularly the Buteyko Method, which could be a helpful tool for you. 

Understanding Asthma: The Basics

Let’s start with a simple explanation of asthma. It’s a bit like an unwelcome guest crashing your lung’s party. It can cause your airways to become swollen and narrow, making it a challenge to breathe freely. You might experience symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or feeling short of breath. 

Some things might set off your asthma, like dust or pollen or even stress and anxiety. Being a teen with asthma, you might also want to learn more about what sets you off.

But here’s the good news – you don’t have to let asthma take the fun out of your life. There are strategies that can help you regain control and feel better.

The Buteyko Method: A Natural Approach

Let’s talk about the Buteyko Method without any fancy hype. This method has been around since the 1950s and focuses on a natural way to manage asthma. It’s not about magic tricks; it’s about understanding how your breathing and asthma symptoms are connected. With the Buteyko Method, you’ll learn how to use your breath to keep the right balance in your breathing. 

Benefits of Breathing Exercises

Let’s get practical about the benefits. Practicing the Buteyko Method won’t turn you into a breathing superhero, but it can help in some great ways. Firstly, think of it as a workout for your lungs – without hitting the gym! You’ll notice better lung function and improved control over your breathing. 

Now, here’s something cool – the Buteyko Method might help you dial down your asthma symptoms. That means less wheezing, fewer episodes of trouble breathing, and more energy to do the things you enjoy, like sports, art, or jamming to music. It’s like having a hidden tool to deal with asthma’s challenges.

I can tell you first hand that the Buteyko Method was a game changer for me. It took some practice but I got to the point that I can now control my asthma and I very rarely need any medication, and I almost never feel like my breath is out of control. 

Simple and Effective Breathing Exercises

Without diving in too deep, I want to share some of the ideas behind the exercises that you’ll find in The Buteyko Method. They’re not magic, but they do work for most people most of the time. Here’s a rundown of some technique ideas:

Nasal Breathing

Breathing through your nose is like giving your lungs a treat. It filters and warms the air, which is gentle on your airways. You can do this right now. Just sit comfortably, close your mouth, and take slow breaths through your nose. You’ll feel the difference.

Reduced Volume Breathing

Instead of big, fast breaths, go for smaller, calmer ones. Breathe in gently through your nose, and breathe out slowly. It’s like teaching your lungs to take a chill pill. This can be a handy trick when asthma starts acting up.

Breath Holding

This is like doing a mini workout and teaching your lungs to not over react to the feeling of being out of breath. Take a normal breath in, then breathe out gently. Hold your breath – not for long – just until you feel a slight urge to breathe again. Just be careful, you don’t want to feel any kind of panic.

Relaxation Breathing

Stress and asthma aren’t great friends. Here’s a trick to help manage stress’s impact. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. With each exhale, imagine stress melting away. This isn’t strictly part of the Buteyko Method but it is an important concept and practice.

Making Breathing a Habit

It’s easier than you might think to make these exercises part of your life. Here are some ideas:

• Morning Routine: Start your day with a short breathing session. It’s like giving your lungs a friendly nudge to wake up.
• Pre-Activity Boost: Before sports or dancing, try a quick reduced breathing exercise. It preps your lungs and reduces the chances of asthma acting up during your activity.
• Stress Management: Got a stressful event? Sneak in some relaxation breathing to keep stress from messing with your breathing.
• Wind Down: End your day with a few calming breaths. It’s like telling your lungs it’s time to chill out.

Remember to Stay Safe

Before you dive into these exercises, remember one thing: talk to your healthcare professional first. The Buteyko Method is helpful, and it’s best to think of it as part of your healthcare and not a replacement for your doctor’s help. Think of it as an extra tool in your asthma management toolbox.

Wrapping Up

Alright, let’s wrap this up. The Buteyko Method isn’t a magical solution, but it’s a practical way to handle asthma. By practicing these exercises, you’re taking charge of your health and wellbeing. 

I know that struggling with asthma sucks, so if you want help, let me know. I really want to help teens with asthma like you. Maybe ask your parent or carer to book a call and we can all chat about how to give your asthma the boot.