COVID-19 DIARY
AND HOME CARE GUIDE
These are the breathing exercises I have been using throughout the viral period and Long Covid. Yoga has helped too. I'm fortunate to have a private yoga teacher with whom I practise a mix of yoga (Hatha and Yin) and Pilates.
Here are some online lessons with another fantastic teacher.
https://www.vickyfox-yoga.com/video
Breathing exercise for anyone feeling breathless or suffering from anxiety
(NHS Active Cycle of Breathing Technique)
-
Get into a comfortable position either sitting up straight, or slightly reclined.
-
Allow your abdominal area and back to expand on each breath.
-
Let your shoulders be heavy, palms facing up.
-
Breathe in slowly through your nose and gently out through your mouth (you can use pursed lips if your breathing becomes very difficult).
-
Now try 3-5 seconds breathing in through your nose, hold for 2-3 seconds, add a sniff to expand lungs, and exhale slowly out through your mouth.
-
Repeat as necessary, but don’t over do as you’ll probably get dizzy.
Now, if you can, spend some time laying on your front, or better still, on your knees and leaning on elbows with head down, bottom in air, breathing slightly deeper breaths than usual. Get the air to the bottom of your lungs, expanding the lower back and abdominal areas. Try and have someone else present, to help you move onto your front and back again. Avoid if you are pregnant or have a medical condition that advises against this.
This is video was sent to me by the COVID clinic for lung infection:
https://vimeo.com/404923161/6660b09422
https://www.royalberkshire.nhs.uk/Managing%20breathlessness.pdf
British Lung Foundation advice for people with pneumonia:
https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/pneumonia/recovery
Disclaimer: This website does not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor, NHS 111 or dial 999.