Pursed-lip breathing
Inhale gently through the nose for 2 seconds. Exhale through pursed lips (as if blowing out a candle) for 4 seconds. The back-pressure prevents small airways from collapsing, helping trapped air escape. Best for acute breathlessness, especially during exertion or in COPD.
Diaphragmatic breathing
Hand on belly, hand on chest. Inhale through the nose so the belly hand rises first and most. Exhale slowly. Trains the diaphragm to do more of the work and reduces accessory muscle use. Best as a daily training practice, not an acute rescue.
When to use each
Acute breathlessness — pursed-lip. Recovery from breathlessness — pursed-lip transitioning to diaphragmatic. Daily training — diaphragmatic, 5–10 minutes twice a day.
Combine them
In pulmonary rehab, the two are taught together: diaphragmatic inhale, pursed-lip exhale. This combination is often more useful than either alone.
Log your sessions in Breathe On and explore the matching guidance at [/breathing-for/asthma](/breathing-for/asthma).