Breathing patterns are unique from person to person, yet we rarely think about how we breathe. An optimal breathing pattern allows more oxygen into your blood and makes your body functions more efficient, resulting in less fatigue and stiffness and better physical well-being.
Doing breathing exercises before your surgery can prepare you for a better surgical outcome. After surgery, you should continue your daily breathing exercises as instructed by your health care team. You should also focus on your breath while doing your other daily exercises.
To establish a regular breathing pattern and prepare your body for surgery, make sure to perform the following breathing exercise routine every day up to your procedure. After discharge, your physical activity programme will include this routine for at least another 2 weeks.
Deep breathing – 10 repetitions
Lateral breathing – 10 repetitions
Abdominal breathing – 10 repetitions
Apply these breathing principles to your workout and your life:
- Inhale and exhale through your nose
- Practise breath control
- Find your natural rhythm
- Breathe silently