Tremors and Breathing
Case Study: I worked with a woman today who had tremors similar to those I observed in Katharine Hepburn during her talk show interviews.
This woman’s breathing was extremely uncoordinated. She approached me with a defeated posture and a downward gaze, showing very little awareness of what proper breathing should feel like or how it should function.
Ninety minutes later, she left feeling “very good.” The color had returned to her face, and her tremors had lessened.
There are very specific, safe, and painless techniques that even a relative or close friend can be trained to perform for a loved one.
Recommended Programs: The Optimal Breathing Mastery Kit
Breaths Per Minute
Question: How many breaths a minute does a healthy adult take?
Answer: The optimal number of breaths depends on the activity being performed. During deep rest, it can be fewer than one breath per minute, though practically, about three breaths per minute is achievable. Eight breaths per minute is good—but not optimal. Pauses are also critical. During intense activity, breathing can rise to 60 breaths per minute.
See the Breathing Test Answers for more insight into pauses.
Beyond that, the longer, slower, effortlessly deeper breaths taken in most any activity would seem to be superior to faster ones. I repeat effortlessly because many force the breath, which force actually restricts the deepest, easiest breath.
Click here for the Rapid Breathing Improvement
Running and Mouth Breathing
Question: I am 17, and I run cross-country and middle-distance track. I’ve been trying to figure out the best way to breathe. For a long time, I’ve been breathing in and out through my mouth. I’ve experimented with different breathing speeds at various paces. I thought the best way would be to take longer breaths and exhale faster. Is that a good way to breathe?
Answer: No
Question: From what I’ve learned, the best way to breathe while running is to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth.
Answer: No
Question: I’ve been trying to breathe this way while running, but when I get tired, I revert to breathing through my mouth only. Is there anything I can do to correct this, or should I breathe differently?
Answer: It’s best to breathe in and out through the nose. Try filling your mouth with water and running that way—slowly at first—so you get used to it. You can also try counting clearly in a whisper as you run. Let me know how that works for you.
Read: Nose Breathing Vs. Mouth Breathing - What’s the Correct Way?
Jogging And Breathing
Question: What is the proper technique for breathing while jogging? I tend to breathe heavily and cannot take in much air through my nose before I’m ready to exhale again.
Answer: You need to free up your breathing BEFORE you jog.
Breathless When Jogging
Question: My friends and I have been doing cardio exercises for the past year. Even though we train hard and regularly, we still find ourselves short of breath—even during light jogging.
I wanted to know if we were breathing correctly, so I searched online and came across your website. I had never heard of breathing through the nose only, but after reading your articles, it made sense. I shared your site with a few friends, and they were also intrigued.
I tried this method, and it wasn’t as difficult as I expected. However, I still need to breathe through my mouth occasionally, especially when running uphill. I’ve read that it gets easier with time. I hope that’s true and would appreciate any additional information so I can continue improving and help others learn as well.
I’ve also spoken to several seasoned joggers about this, and none of them had heard of it before. I’m looking forward to any more insights you can share.
Answer: Walking—even race walking—is better for you and makes nose breathing easier. The people who live the longest, most vitality-filled lives tend to walk or swim, not jog.
In 2012, I used nose breathing to earn a 1500K race-walk bronze medal at the Senior Games. To get the most from nose breathing, it’s essential to develop your breathing capacity and coordination.
Learn more about acquiring Energy Through Optimal Breathing
Also, try Zircon Nose Vents at Amazon.com. They open the nostrils better than Breathe Right Strips, although Breathe Right can be very helpful as well. Rolfing to open the nostrils may be helpful. Surgeries often do not last beyond 5 years, or you have a constant need to medicate or nasal irrigation due to the key membranes being removed.
Read: Breathing Through the Nose
Deep Breathing Difficulty
Question: I’ve recently been experiencing an irritating problem. When I’m eating, I sometimes have difficulty taking a deep breath. It also happens at other times, though less frequently.
I’m 40 years old, in excellent shape, and a regular runner. My weight is ideal for my height and frame. It’s frustrating because I often need to work to expand my lungs several times before I can finally take a satisfying deep breath. Sometimes it works, but other times it doesn’t last long. Any idea what might be going on?
Answer: Sounds like sports-induced breathing problems.
Related Reading
Exercise-Induced Asthma
Question: I’ve been experiencing difficulty breathing after extensive walking, and I think it might be exercise-induced asthma. I’ve never had asthma before. The problem seems to go away when I lie down. What is it, and how can I get rid of it?
Answer: Exercise-induced asthma comes along with precursors of a subtle, sometimes undetectable, constricted chest and poor breathing coordination.
Get our Optimal Breathing Improvement Program.
Hyperventilation
Question: How is hyper-ventilation normally treated?
Answer: Four ways I know of are drugs, surgery, breathing into a paper bag, biofeedback, and breathing development. The first three are inefficient and worsen or develop bad breathing habits; the last is helpful, but when the mechanics of breathing are set properly, it will probably not be needed except in extreme cases.
Hyperventilation - Exercise-Induced
Question: "I am 59, and up to age 5,8 I was able to run 2 miles in 18 minutes. Suddenly, one day, I could not run 500 yards. I was on Atelenol, and I went for a Stress EKG and Asthma test. The conclusion was asthma. Re-prescribed the CA channel blocker. I do not use an inhaler, but discovered that if I warm up (sweat), I can run. Could excess weight put pressure on the diaphragm? And if this is indeed hyperventilation, why could one not breathe into a paper bag to increase CO2 exhalations?
Answer: Yes, excess weight can cause breathing problems. But hyperventilation is largely a breathing balance issue. It is often misdiagnosed. To the degree, our breathing is properly developed is the degree we do not hyperventilate. Gasping and breath heaving from exercise or even climbing stairs causes muscle constriction that can cause chronic shallow and/or unbalanced breathing. When we try to breathe, it feels constricted, effortful, or unsatisfying, and does not go away without specific non-drug breathing mechanics and developing techniques. Change your breathing sequencing with our Deepest Calm Program, and the hyperventilation will most likely go away.
Yes, weight can cause breathing restrictions. The best you develop the breathing and the way you approach it; the weight often slowly falls off.
Pollution
Question: I have briefly perused your great website. I am looking forward to reading it in-depth. This probably sounds silly. I have not asked anyone else this question.
I feel very inhibited by the pollution in the Northeast US. I have chronic sinusitis and definitely need to do the breathing, but I feel like I am also taking in more pollutants (indoor and out)! Can you show me the flaw in my thinking here?
Thanks for the information and support.
Answer: No flaw. You are in a classic double bind. Wanting to breathe better and worried about what it is that you are breathing. Feed it, develop it, and protect it. If it is THAT bad, go to work to change the environment or LEAVE it. The latter is probably the most direct and effective. Antioxidants are also a way to offset.
Breath Holding
Question: What is the longest that a person can go holding their breath safely?
Answer: It depends upon their volume and conditioning. Pipin Ferraras, who held the world freediving record, can dive down to 435 feet below the surface of the ocean in one breath. This requires tremendous practice and exercises to offset the breath-holding restrictions that it invites. I sense that he has trained himself to lower his metabolism, heart rate, and breathing rate at will. Something similar to what Yogis do when they are buried alive for several hours or days. This takes years and years to perfect. I counsel against breath holding for most people as it blocks the breathing system, including the speaking and singing voice.
Get the Sports Performance Program
To go much deeper into breath holding, I highly recommend Breathology by Stig Severinsen. It is a wealth of information that guides one into state-of-the-art freediving techniques.
Swimming Underwater and Free Diving
Question: I enjoy going snorkeling, but I would like to be able to stay down longer. Are there any ways that I can increase the length of time I can hold my breath while underwater?
Answer: Learn to relax and increase your natural breathing reflex. Get the Sports Performance Program.
Sleep Apnea
Question: I took sleep disorder tests 3 years ago and was found to have sleep apnea. I could not tolerate the sensation of air blowing in my face/nose, soI cannot use the standard equipment available to help me sleep. I hold my breath when dreaming (these are not nightmares - just normal dreams). I become so interested or intense, I "forget" to breathe. I find this happens during the day and also when I am awake. Occasionally, if I am totally absorbed in something, I hold my breath without realizing what I am doing. A missed heartbeat will remind me of what is happening. At night, I am taking beta blockers because the lack of breathing will cause my heart rate to accelerat,e and this in turn, wakes me up. My doctor has also prescribed Clonazepam at bedtime. Any ideas on breathing exercises or? I would love to get off the above medications. My doctors have never worked with someone with this "breath-holding syndrome." This is something I have always lived with, but after a bout of pneumonia 3 years ago this has become a major problem. I have had to rely on the above medication to sleep. Any suggestions? I might also add, I take no medication during the day.
Answer: Get the Optimal Breathing Self-Mastery Kit and open up your breathing with the strapping techniques and a few key exercises.
Respiratory Psychophysiology
Question: I am currently enrolled in the psychophysiology course at .....college and was wondering if you have any research or information that could be helpful to our research. Thank you for your time.
Answer: I have lived in psychophysiology for the last 35 years. Look closely at the website, and you will see that.
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You must practice specific breathing exercises and get the "Secrets of Optimal Natural Breathing".
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Share the study with your instructors. Put it to class scrutiny.
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Study the website and stay on the email newsletter.
Do ALL of this. Reading and writing about it is not even close to experiencing it. You MUST experience the breath to know, understand, benefit from it, and then be able to speak with authority and integrity. Full-bodied experience is the essence of integrity.
Stuttering
Question 1: I believe good breathing can help alleviate stuttering. Do you recommend any particular breathing exercises for this problem?
Answer: Extending the exhale several times more than the inhale has worked with some. Take the Breathing Tests for hidden signs of breathing blocks. Get our Singing/Speaking program first, so you have a few key tools on hand.
Question 2: Hi. I have speech problems. I Stutter. I just wondering if there's any Tapes or something to help me with my Breathing & Stuttering.
Answer: Many people think of themselves as stutterers. If you are willing to redefine yourself and think of yourself as one who "used to stutter" or who is "stuttering less and less," we can make some progress.
Tired Trumpet Lips
Question: Hey Michael, I am 37 and I have been playing the Trumpet for the past 24 or so years. I am a good player, but I am very limited based on what I call bad breathing habits. I talk with several of the top-notch players in the industry, and none of the,m after a long concer,t get tired of their lip. Instea,d they all say that they are tired in the lower back. I howeve,r get tired in my lip because I know I am not breathing deep. Playing the Trumpet means a lot to me. I will be in situations where I may have to improvise a solo, and my mind hears one thin,g but because of the lack of development with correct breathing, I am forced to settle for something less than expected of myself. Can you help me?
Answer: Take the BREATHING TESTS for hidden signs of breathing blocks. Purchase our “Breathing Improvement Program.”
Best Environment For Breathing?
Question: Has there been research to determine the best possible environment for people to live in, ie, humidity, temperature, air purity, and oxygen concentration? If there is, where could the results be found?
Answer: Probably different opinions depending on nutrition, lifestyle, and stress. My choices would be moderate to low humidity, cool to comfortably warm climate, absolutely clean air, 21.8% oxygen, and a sea level of 1,700 feet*—lots of negative ions.
*Studies show that it is as high as you want to go before the altitude stresses instead of conditions.
Click here to take your Free Breathing Tests.
Asthmatic Bronchitis
Question: What is asthmatic bronchitis, and does one keep asthma after the bronchitis is gone?
Answer: Bronchitis will help constrict the lungs and invite either bronchitis and/or asthma to return. Let me know if you can't get rid of either and or keep getting one or the other.
In any event, you should release the restriction your breathing has experienced due to asthma or bronchitis. That means doing the techniques described in my Breathing Improvement Program.
Memory
Question: Over the past two months, I've experienced a rapid decline in my ability to process information (written, spoken, and thoughts) and recall things (short-term memory). It's made me miserable! Could the way I breathe be a factor?
Answer: Absolutely, but it is impossible even to begin to assess the situation without the Breathing tests. Get some E3live.
Mouth Breathing - In and Out
Question: I came across your page, and it feeds right into what I am doing.
I teach the 5 Tibetan Rites (as detailed in "Fountain of Youth" by Kelder). A question arose as to the proper breathing.
The book says to breathe in through the nose and breathe out through the mouth. This feels right to me. But I then read in some esoteric yoga books from India that you always breathe in and out through the nose.
Answer: Some so many people do not study the breath, pass themselves as experts, and teach harmful practices.
Exhaling through the mouth is very bad information.
We uptake most of our oxygen during the exhale. The size of the nostrils creates back pressure that holds air in a little longer so that the O2 has more time to be extracted from the air in the lungs.
The more you can function by breathing in and out through the nose, the better, except when singing or in extreme states of fight, fight, freeze, faking it, or fun. Then you will need to take in a lot of air and need both your nose and mouth.
If you inherited your very large father’s lungs and your very small mother’s nostrils, you would have to breathe in AND out through the mouth more often. This is an extreme and rare example, but it illustrates better the issue of volume combined with air intake hole size. Click here to learn more about mouth breathing vs. nose breathing.
Asthma
Question: I am interested in breathing because I have had asthma most of my adult life which is now gone because I went to a herbalist instead of an MD as I had severe stomach problems also and a friend of mine recommended this man (he's a doctor in China). In two weeks he had helped me when no doctor had been able to do so for some 40 years(I'm not young - 69). So now I use him and an acupuncturist for all my health needs here in Florida and in NYC. Its expensive because its not covered by medicare but its worth every penny. It also cured my asthma attacks usually brought on by colds which turned into bronchitis. Now I still get coughs but they don't turn into asthmatic breathing. I also did some yoga breathing exercises on my own - very effective. So I haven't had an asthma attack in over a year, and I don't have to take antibiotics which make me ill, give the illusion of a fast cure which did not prevent the asthma or really stentorian breathing.
But I know I don't breathe as well as I could, which is what interests me about your site, because I believe proper breathing is a huge help in maintaining healt,h especially as you get older. I also smok,e which is not goo,d but it is a habit I have been unable to break, except once in a while - during bronchial illness or asthma attacks, I don't smoke - I'm not insane, just addicted. So I'll read your articles and see what you say. It's a good site, I've seen much worse done by experts. And maybe when I've decided I want to stop smoking, I'll consider your program, although I lean towards hypnosis which I like for bad habits.
Answer: You can improve, but you will NOT regain your breathing until you work directly on the mechanics of breathing. Herbs, Chinese medicine, and stopping smoking will help greatly, but they still will not regain what you have lost. That is where significant health and longevity are. You can, though, regain what you lost, but you MUST work at it. So you do not get caught up with an inferior approach, read about the fallacies with Buteyko, and then proceed from there. I smoked for 18 years and now have a 4.2-inch chest expansion.
The Stop Smoking Program will add volume and ease to your breathing. It is much less expensive than supporting, as good as they can be, alternative medical professionals.
Breath is life. What is your choice of the kind of breath you will have?
Difficulty Breathing
Question: I have asthma, but it usually does not cause any problems for me; however, I currently take Serevento and use an albuterol inhaler for sudden mild attacks.
Answer: To me, if you have to take inhalers that is a problem. They only deal with the symptoms and not the cause.
Question: For the past 3 years though, I still have had difficulties breathing and taking full breaths. I am a very active person, but sometimes I cannot run for more than 5 minutes without being unable to breathe. It's not like an asthma attack though. Instead, it's just as if I cannot take air all the way in.
Answer: That is the foundation of the breathing mechanics aspect of an asthma-like attack. If it did not happen, you probably would not have asthma symptoms.
Question: The problem is VERY annoying, and I am worried that it might be a bigger problem.
Answer: I agree.
Question: My peak flow is pretty low as well.
Answer: It makes sense to me.
Question: I have been to a doctor and was advised that it is nothing specific so now I do not know what to do. I have noticed some swollen lymph nodes as well, but the doctor says they are not correlated with the problem.
Answer: I disagree.
Question: I'll bet nutrition and elimination are significant components. What do you suggest?
Answer: Get our Breathing Development program here.
Asthma and Blocked Nostrils
Question: Dear Mike, Hi, my name is Shaun J. I live in Australia and practice raw foods - How I find your site!!!! Raw foods have allowed me to rid myself of Asthma and have been eating 100% raw for just over 5 years. But other problems are becoming more in my face, which I feel is greatly due to breath and old belief pattern doubts, fears, and inability to move forward. I do have extremely shallow breath when not focused on deeper breath, also a life of mouth breathing and very narrow nostril passages, usually taking turns at being blocked - I have known people to have surgery for enlarging the inside diameter -not keen, though I'm very interested in hearing your advice. Also, I feel that my breathing through the mouth whilst asleep or any time for that matter, would not allow proper cleansing. I also suffered for many years depression and self-doubt, and a very short attention span; focus not!!! If you could shed some light/advice, it would be greatly appreciated.
Answer: Great, another raw foods success story, but five years? Our breathing development work can get results in five minutes to five days. It is interesting to me that every case of asthma I have heard of has a significant mechanical breathing component. Glad the wheezing part is over. I believe that asthma has four components.
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Environment
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Diet
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Emotions
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The way we breathe (or don't breathe).
When they all are present in varying degrees, asthma, or what medical science calls asthma, appears (its need for all components to be at its worst is misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or overlooked).
What I see for you is that it has just backed away because you have handled ONE of the components, diet. I believe it is still there (under the surface) and may reappear in later years if you are athletic, highly stressed, or grow old, or older, and or your posture gets poor.
I have heard that many surgeries are reversed in time by the re-growth of nasal membranes, but I would investigate surgery (get THREE opinions). Also, get the Shortness of Breath Program to learn how to optimally develop your internal breathing sequencing/coordination.
The Weather
Question: Does weather affect a COPD patient’s breathing?
Answer: Absolutely. Lack of fresh air, dryness, dustiness from windy areas, pollen, altitude, low oxygen in the air from rain that reduces oxygen due to its volume of moisture, nutrition that is non-optimal and allows the environment to exacerbate the symptoms, and even a relationship with a friend that was troubled by the weather and therefore troubling to you, would all adversely affect breathing.
Try our Recommended Program
Read more: How Weather Affects COPD Symptoms And What You Can Do About It
Opera Singing
Question: I am currently training to be an opera singer, and I still do not feel that I have mastered the correct breathing needed to create the sound I desire. I would like to know if you have any experience with singers, and what technique you feel is best for me to use. I can support my sound somewhat, of course, but my voice often tires quickly. I recognize how important breathing is to my career, and would like to use proper breathing to preserve my voice so it will be robust for many years. If you wish, I will complete the BREATHING TESTS listed on this page, in addition to any others you might feel appropriate.
Answer: Lots of experience with singers. I love to work with singers. With few exceptions, they are some of the healthiest and happiest people in the world.
Think of your entire internal body as a sound-producing instrument.
You must be both standing, relaxed, and properly erect simultaneously. This is for the most part contradictory, as gravity and being bent and twisted in subtle ways create breathing blocks. It takes years to release them unless you can immediately feel what it is like to make the sound you want. Click here to get a sense of what I am referring to. When you work with me, you experience some techniques that help you find the inside sense of what the easy, full voice feels and sounds like when it is unfettered with internal tensions and weaknesses.
I combine various techniques and exercises to get you there in a few hours instead of months or years.
I can’t easily tell you what I do because it is something like riding a bicycle, juggling, eating, and smiling all at the same time. But I can often coach you into the proper place within a few hours. The trick is to experience the sound NOW so that you can go back to it as a kinesthetic felt sense experience instead of a technically correct and often somewhat restricted experience that might sound good but not have the optimal internal coordination to invite a strong and more spontaneous singing voice that comes from who you really are.
I am looking for highly motivated people who are totally committed to living life to the absolute fullest. Tell me how much chest expansion you have now by taking this test. Take the cloth tape measure and wrap it around your upper chest below your collarbone.
Exhale fully and measure the distance. Inhale fully and measure that distance. What is the difference between the two measurements?
Example:
Fully Exhaled = 35; Fully inhaled = 37 1/4
Expansion is 2.25 inches.
1-2 inches is average, depending on your height. 4- 5 inches is great. I'm 6'2" & have a 4-inch rise.
Love And Breathing
Question: I noticed a couple of years back how my breathing has changed. When I was unhappily married and unhappy with who I was, I was a shallow breather. It was as if I didn't love myself enough to breathe deeply of this basic necessity. As I began merging with my true self and loving myself, I noticed a shift in my breathing. It is always a subtle sign to myself if I catch myself breathing shallowly. I take that as an opportunity to breathe deeply and shine some love all over the situation, including me. When I am around others who are breathing shallowly, I focus on breathing deeply and evenly. I send thoughts of unconditional love and thoughts of ease to them. It may not be a quick fix for them, but I know every thought of love I offer them is there ALWAYS and can be redeemed in this moment or years in our future. The great thing about love is it never expires.
Answer: Well said. There is great value to this. One must remember to free up the breath so that it EASILY operates spontaneously this way just in the process of day-to-day living. You also learned that conscious focus on the breath could make it larger, and along with that, the heart center can open, and we can feel loved more deeply. That is what we intended. Energy follows thought even better, thought follows energy (calming, peaceful energy).
Deviated Septum
Question: Dear Mike, I am contacting you to ask your advice. I am 65. I have a deviated septum. Since birth I have not been able to breathe properly. I have huffed and puffed my way through Ballet, Motherhood and Grand-motherhood. I want to learn to breathe and I don't know if that is possible without undergoing surgery for my deviated septum and extensive retraining. In January I injured my back and when a Chiropractor came to help me he broke four ribs and I now have pneumonia in my left lung where the ribs were broken. Your site was given to me by a friend yesterday when I got back from the hospital ( for diagnosis ) Of course I am unable to do the test at this moment. I will do so however as soon as I can. I would like to have some feedback from you. I am not telling my story for story's sake, but rather to give you an overall view of the situation.
Answer: Try sleeping with Breathe-Right strips over the bridge of your nose. The ribs must heal. This "Rack-em and crack-em" style is often harmful and should be partially replaced with more tissue-oriented work, such as myofascial and deep tissue. The next chiropractor you use must integrate bodywork. The septum probably must be fixed by surgery or Rolfing. Rolfing may or may not work and will be extremely painful. Perhaps more so than you can handle. Drink mostly liquids with lots of antioxidants until the ribs heal. Get a few cases of e3live liquid to accelerate healing.
Asthmatic Wants Off Drugs and Steroids
Question: Hi. I am an asthmatic. Went “off” cortisone about 10 months ago. Battling with breathing. Medical doctors want me to go back on cortisone. Using an inhaler plus theophylline daily. Need guidance on breathing techniques, so that I can be able to exercise, sing etc, without battling for breath.
Answer: Begin here for No More Asthma.
ADD - Attention Deficit Disorder
Question: I have a feeling many are misdiagnosed, I see a lot of talk about pill's of one type or another, meds being the only thing that works for AADD/ADD, and say Baloney! I take all kinds of meds and don't see them do much of anything. My boss is a rad/onc and I see daily the effects of people who do not want to change their lifestyle to accommodate (prevent) their illness.
Some actually believe that what they eat has no bearing on their mental as well as their physical health. We are an overfed, undernourished country.
I only made it 3 days with no refined carbs. By Tuesday night I was climbing the wall and snapping at everyone. I relapsed with ice cream. During the 3 days I ate nothing white. My sleep improved-I made it to REM and had some vivid dreams. That is a BIG change-I usually sleep no longer than 2 hours at a stretch, wake up for 1/2 hr-back to sleep. It's very hard to make this kind of change, but I so want to feel better.
Answer: Dear Marie, I feel for you AND the job you have to do. I care not for most oncologists, as I believe they are working with an inadequate paradigm taught in a dysfunctional educational system that too often kills people. Not that they are bad people, they just do not help the person live if that is what the person would like to do. And who wouldn't want to live if they were healthy and happy? Oncologists do not have the tools they should have for the responsibilities and powers they get paid big bucks for. They too often wear people down with chemo and surgery to the point where death is actually welcome.
Please try to wake up the email list group, ADD moderators and get them open to the idea that holism is a lot more than taking meds and paying excessive and, too often, stupid doctor bills. To put one's trust and even life in the hands of an oncologist is, in my opinion, sometimes but rarely appropriate and most often damn poor odds for regaining optimum health or even surviving.
Frankly, I would do a two-week to one-month intensive with strict internal cleansing, oxygenation, digestion, stretching, breathing redevelopment, and vegan foods to see what happens with the ADD symptoms. I'll bet they reduce it a little, a lot, or altogether. Individual responsibility and holistic treatment are dearly needed here. Integrate all this with the Recommended Program and E3live.
Breathing is, and EVERYTHING gets impacted by how we breathe. EVERYTHING. Some things are more than others. Breathing just HAS to be a significant component of ADD.
Good luck. You have your work cut out for you. But I believe you can beat it because you have a great attitude and see the mistakes and inconsistencies of the Western Medical Doctor and are not fooled by their often well-meaning but misinformation, outright BS, and all too often deadly advice. There are a lot of capable health professionals in the world.
Muscle Spasms
Question: Dear Mike, What a fascinating website. I am suffering (with ever more symptoms) from muscle fasciculations. I suspect that I regularly hyperventilate. Anyway my muscles and nerves are hypersensitive and start to feel more and more painfull. I have checked out your website but couldn't find any references to "fasciculation’s" and muscle spasms. Could this as well be a problem of "bad breathing"?. Please help me, I feel more and more desperate and anxious, out of control. Apnea does relate partly to breathing so another reason to develop your breathing..
Answer: Bad breathing can cause or make some spasms worse, including seizures. Work with the Optimal Breathing Kit
Do I Have Asthma?
Question: "Over the last couple of years i have been getting sinusitus on a regular basis as well as other chest infections, but recently it has got worse and now my breathing seems more shallow and I feel the need to hold my breath in order to make myself breathe again. My friend says her asthma is like this, and I had to attend hospital the other night because my breathing is starting to panic me since it is constant, whether I am exercising or not. The doctors seemed to fob me off saying there is nothing wrong with me but I really am worried because I feel like I am not getting enough oxygen, any ideas?"
Answer: Very likely asthma or what is often referred to as such. See UDB
There are several components to most shortness of breath, often called asthma. The MDs mostly miss one or two.
Get this program.
Mental Function
Question: In searching for info that aired last week on studies about mental testing and developing mental practice sessions to enhance, increase and hopefully slow down sluggish or loss of memory as one ages, the article on breathing came up. It was the first article I'd seen about breathing and its affect on memory. I forwarded it to a friend who had asked if I knew of ways to improve memory, including research sources. Also, I believe that many people whose bodies are disproportionately shaped breathe incorrectly which increases the degree of lopsiddedness or excessive bellies and eventually hunched backs produced from those imbalances. If we breathe correctly as we do all physical things in our day to day lives, as well as when we exercise extra, we will stand straighter, taller and slimmer and hopefully learn to repeat those efforts and outcomes regularly.
Answer: See
Man or Woman - Who Breathes Better?
Question: Michael, I would appreciate something in the range of comparison between differences in athletic breathing for men and women. Regardless of equality claims, it seems that reality discovers subtle differences in all other areas. Perhaps there are none but at this point I am unsure. Thanks for the spinning article it should be very helpful to your readers. By the by, I prefer the CLEAR PASSAGE strips which I feel are an improvement upon the original product. should you and others continue to push breathe right, they will be gone and I shall have to make my own.
Personally, I find the gym bike to be a boring entree to fitness. My primary task in that area is on the speed and heavy bags, which I preface with a little BBE2 in between 3-round sets. On the heavy bag, I do abbreviated sets of lat pull-downs, dumbbells, and leg machine routines.
Answer: I observe that women breathe deeper, easier, and more balanced in general. I suspect that historically less stress and having babies hopefully get the breath back in balance or stronger but not always and often is worsened unless C Section intervenes and confuses the issue.
For more info, read: Who Breathes Better: Man or Woman?
Panic Attacks on Almost a Daily Basis
Question: I have been having panic attacks on almost a daily basis for the last 6 months.
Recently I realized I have been having them on and off over the last many years. I am taking both Zoloft and Alprazalam which have helped immensely.
Answer: They treat the symptom, not the cause.
Question: But I still continue to have difficulty with the feeling of satisfied breathing. I want to be rid of the Alprazalam as a minimum but cannot eliminate the breathing symptoms which I understand help to bring on the attacks. Even Alprazalam is not eliminating or alleviating breathing difficulties.
Answer: It cannot because the issue is probably a breathing pattern disorder/mechanical that upsets carbon dioxide and oxygen balance.
Question: After reading several publications and through discussions with my Doctor I feel I have developed poor breathing habits. I have tried several of the breathing techniques described in these publications but am having difficulty retraining myself. The more I think about it the worse it gets. Going to sleep many times is the only way I can get relief some days. My Doctor believes that I am hyperventilating.
Answer: Probably so.
Question: I agree but I also think that it is easy for me to hyperventilate due to the way that I breathe. I also have Lupus and through the years have had several inflammations in and around my lungs which may have caused the bad breathing habits to develop. I quit flying 16 years ago due to continual flare-ups of my Lupus accompanied by breathing difficulties which were probably really panic attacks.
Answer: Makes sense to me.
Question: My Lupus has been inactive for two years. I have just had a complete physical and am in good general health. A year ago I went through extensive lung function tests which resulted in no major lung problems but a comment that even though I thought I was inhaling and exhaling as hard as I could it appeared I wasn’t trying hard enough.
Answer: Often the exact opposite of what you need to do. See this.
Question: I exercise on a regular basis, eat no sugar or flour products, and use minimal alcohol and caffeine. My goal is to kick my poor breathing habits, control my panic attacks, get off the Alprazalam, and be able to fly in comfort. Can you help?
Answer: Yes. Get our Deepest Calm Program.
Breathing Problem. It Comes and Goes
Question: Dear Mike -- For years, I've had what I simply refer to now as my "breathing problem". It comes and goes, some weeks or months being worse than others. However, the problem is present more often than not, and it's extremely discouraging. I've had a couple of inconclusive pulmonary function (or similar) tests, and they were inconclusive. I'm 45, quite active, and I've never been a smoker. When working out, I don't usually experience the problem. The symptoms: I feel I must constantly try to yawn, to get enough deep breath.
Sometimes I'll go for minutes attempting to yawn before I'm successful. My lungs end up feeling sore and strained, and my neck and ribs, and upper back really hurt with all the effort. Sometimes my throat feels closed up. These symptoms are usually worse later in the day.
My doctor feels the problem is related to soft-tissue neck injury I sustained after being rear-ended ten years ago, and says my neck and back tension are probably the main culprits. However, at times the problem is severe enough to make me wonder if there's a tumor inside, squeezing my respiratory system. Have you encountered this kind of problem before, and, if so, what do you suggest?
Answer: Yes. You must rule out a tumor but it may well be UDB. Then work with the Deepest Calm Program.
Prayer and Breathing
Rick: Hi Mike, I have been working with your reflexive breath. I thought I would try and combine breathing with prayer, so I used a variation of the Jesus Prayer that I found in Orthodox Christianity. I said half the prayer on the inhale, and the other half on the exhale, trying to maintain the reflexive breathing pattern. I got very powerful results. It is really amazing how this Optimal Breathing process integrates so many other processes. Thanks, Rick
Mike: Thank you. Yes, Optimal Breathing is adjunctive to everything. Competes with nothing. Keep experimenting and making notes. What results did you experience?
Rick: I experienced a calm, blissful state. I will stay with it.
Recommended Program:
Heart Troubles and Anxiety
Question: Dear Mike, I am writing to request your kind assistance relating to a problem with my health which is caused by anxiety (as surgeons have told me). The problem is that I have difficulty in breathing. Whenever I am in stress or worried about something, I cannot catch my breath. In these situations I need to take a deep breath in order to relax. If I cannot catch a deep breath, I do not feel good and my head spins slightly. Doctors have told me that this problem is related to anxiety and have given me medication. X-rays of my lungs have shown no problems. I would like to ask whether this breathing problem is directly related to anxiety or whether it can be due to problems with other organs such as my heart or lungs. I look forward to your response and how I can solve this problem.
Answer: I read your test scores. From my experience, breathing problems most often cause heart problems. Not the reverse. Excessive caffeine consumption or drugs aside, anxiety is most often caused by some form of compromised breathing.
Dr. Sheldon Hendler, M.D., Ph.D. states that "Breathing is the FIRST place, not the LAST place one should investigate when ANY evidence of disordered energy presents itself."
Recommendation: Deepest Calm Program.
Breath Following Exercises
They can be wonderful for some and harmful for others. If your breathing is out of balance and you follow it, then what? I use a scientifically proven biofeedback device to measure blood carbon dioxide saturation in real-time and learned that with some people, even the slightest attention to the breathing could sometimes cause the inhale to develop a subtle and almost undetectable to the eye or inner sensing, erratic breathing sequencing during the exercise and that helps to support the pre-existing breathing pattern disorder. What is perceived as relaxation may be better or worse than it was before but along with a long-term tendency to cause or exacerbate what I call UDB. If you've tried them and felt they did not work for you, you may have UDB.
Aerobic Reserve
Question: Dear Mike, Do your techniques or exercises generate just as much capacity as activities commonly described as aerobic?
Answer: The key is how much energy is expended in accumulating the energy. What is the "cost" of accumulating that energy? To be optimal, you must also expand the rib cage and cause an increase in the rise of the diaphragm. The Optimal Energy Program includes what you need. You can greatly augment it here.Lung Removal
Question: My husband had lung cancer surgery on 10/15, he is 57 years old. They removed his left lung, and repaired his pulmonary artery. He is in the hospital in Newport Beach California recuperating. He has a respiratory therapist every 4 hours but is having a hard time getting enough air due to congestion buildup in his remaining right lung. This then causes panic because he feels like he is suffocating. I am in need of help as to how he can strengthen his right lung and for information as to how we can cope with his one lung once we get home from the hospital. Do you have information about this?
Thank you. Janel C
Answer: I can not get in the middle of his relationship with the respiratory therapist and a fresh surgery. When and if he no longer wants to work with that person or wishes to add self-help, is when I can get directly involved. I would suggest that, in any event, you get my Optimal Breathing Development program and see how it fits with his situation. I am sure you will find many things to deepen your knowledge and approach to the problems he and you are facing.
Diaphragm Function and Healthy Chemical Releases in the Body
Question: When practicing diaphragm-type breathing, is a chemical released in the body? Thanks very much, Dawn E.
Answer: Interesting question. Endorphins relate to breathing quite a bit. So do respiratory neuropeptides. Adrenaline as well if the breath is high-chest or stressful. Whether they are directly related to the diaphragm function, I do not know. I suspect the answer is yes. The breathing process causes them to proliferate, but only if the breathing is done in a certain way. Optimal Breathing techniques and exercises create extra amounts of great feeling states that make the diaphragm a leading contributor.
Related Reading
Breathwork and Optimal Breathing
Question: Mike, Thanks for the reference. I am wondering about how and what you are doing and describing relates to shock, trauma, and emotional release--Doug
Answer: Dear Doug, Gay and Kathlyn Hendricks, PhDs, focused a lot on pre and perinatal aspects in my Radiance Breathwork training I took in 1990 and 1991. It mainly addresses what someone thinks or feels about what was going on then. Though that can clearly guide, I am more interested in what is happening in real-time and how it can be resolved moment to moment by a grounded, balanced, consistent breathing pattern and how we can manage that.
I am trained in, among others, Rebirthing, Radiance Breathwork (Hendricks), and Reichian techniques. I have been studying the breath for some 44 years. Too often, these "breathwork'' emotional releases come too quickly and cause the individual to suffer from over- or under-exposure to the energy they have no way to process/integrate/deal with, or never get to in the first place. You can't just tell someone to "integrate the experience. It might take years for some people. Some never integrate it and seem weird or too different. I can not, as an accountable professional, trust the process to so much luck or wide swings of results.
I find that when people integrate the mechanical breathing improvement approach with the energy work, the client transitions more easily, smoothly, and with more groundedness, inner strength, and peace. The work sticks better because I have rearranged the way the hundreds of internal influences/mechanisms of breathing drive the nervous system. Plus, they "stay in their body" a lot more, and they like that because it feels right and whole.
The body was designed to breathe in a certain way. Some people believe I mean that in a mechanistic way. This could not be further from the truth. You must have the rhythm and internal coordination working to optimize breathing's flexibility and maximum potential. If you build a tuba and try to play it like a guitar, you are going to have difficulty. Few really know what optimal breathing looks, acts, sounds, and feels like. (The belly breath idea is a kindergarten-level approach.)
Optimal Breathing’s modality design implies sensitivity (without fragility), flexibility (without overcompensation), expansion (at individual tolerable levels), spontaneousness, focus, and internal strength. One must not only release negative energy. One must also rebalance the nervous system. It does not rebalance by itself with just the emotional release process, though there is often progress in that direction. On the contrary, the release process often opens up energetic, respiratory psychological cans of worms that need professional assistance, especially after decades of unbalanced breathing.
The mechanical breathing function either aids or inhibits emotional/nervous system balance, including catharsis. It absolutely must be addressed in a clear and accurate, non-hyperbolic fashion. Plus, when it is improved quickly in the way it was designed to function optimally, the body stays in balance and is not so subject to wild swings of emotion. This helps ALL modalities as all modalities are in some way affecting or affected by the way we breathe. I am particularly fond of Optimal Breathing because I can replicate it from person to person. So could you too, with my training.
Shuddering
Question: Hello Mr. White, My name is Cathy, I am 46 years old. I have had COPD for 2 1/2 years that I know of. I have been smoke-free for 2 years now. I have a question I would like to ask you about some of my breathing. It is hard to explain, but here goes. When a baby has cried really hard and they are falling asleep, they sometimes make a motion in their breathing that is like about 3 little gasps in one inhalation. I asked my doctor what this was and she called it a "shudder." I do this several times a day now, it is something that happens all by itself. Do you know anything about these things called "shudders"? I have tried to find some information on the computer several times and have found nothing. I am not on 02. I do get real winded on exertion. My 02 stats are 94 to 96 at rest. Thanks for any help you can offer me. hope you had a good New Year.
Thank you, Cathy
Answer: My advice would be to develop your breathing and not worry about the shudder. It may well go away pretty soon when the breathing improves, and if not, you have done yourself a great service by making your breathing better.
See the Deepest Calm Program.
CPAP
Mike: Got your letter and was pleased to learn all that occurred. You have a wonderful spirit that shows as well in your writing as in person.
I do not like the idea of anyone, especially K--- who is your love and husband, who uses a CPAP unless they are at least learning how to breathe in the hopes of getting off it someday. I believe it forces an unnatural preset breathing rhythm not related to the ebbs and flows of one's moment-to-moment energy changes and that that is not good in the long run. Though it certainly can be good in the short run for sleeping for many.
I started to snore and feel borderline apneac in that I could not relax without "coming to" with a "start" having not breathed enough. I transferred to a very hard massage table sleeping surface, a large pillow under my knees so I would stay on my back in a ribs-up position all night ( I train people to do that) with a small thoracic pillow. I also began swimming the breaststroke. In a week, the snoring and apneac stuff went away to stay away.
I suspect that the position of the rib cage needs to be high so that the diaphragm can rise easily, and if the bed is even slightly soft, the body sinks down and inhibits effortless diaphragm rise (excursion) often enough that it gets used to staying down there at the bottom of the cycle. Sitting at a computer exacerbates the situation. As great as it can be, too much of Tai Chi and Chi Kung is in partial flexion without the ribs being up like a singer's. Or there is not enough emphasis from the teacher in the extension positions.
The breathing coordination system needs to be used more with the body in extension, hence try our Shortness of Breath Program.
Stay well and be the great person you and God have guided yourself to be. My best to your beautiful family.
Get our Optimal Sleep Program
Contraindications for Optimal Breathing?
Question: I am currently working on a proposal to our local hospital for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. I want to know, from a clinical/hospital base, are there any contraindications for optimal breathing?
Answer: Applied properly, there are none. It depends on the situation. You must first learn what optimal breathing looks, feels, and performs like, then apply it to your special situation. Begin here
Ozone Therapy and Irregular Breathing
Question: "I'm from LA, but I'm going to be in Germany for the summer and I was going to enlist in ozone therapy to address the problems that irregular breathing causes. What is your advice? Do you know of any breathing/singing (I'm a vocalist) coaches in Germany or surrounding countries?"
Answer: Ozone therapy is incredibly powerful, but it will not address unbalanced breathing mechanics. It will only mask the cause. Side by side with any need for ozone therapy, I suggest you address the irregular breathing using our program at Optimal Energy Program. Then, take ozone therapy for health and well-being.
Read more: Ozone Therapy: That Extra Oxygen Molecule Can Work Wonders
A Right Way to Breathe and Weight Loss?
Mike: I have seen hundreds and heard of thousands of people start a daily breathing routine and lose weight. The danger is that they may be doing a breathing exercise that actually locks up the breathing so that the long-term effect can be harmful to the voice, thyroid, thymus, lungs, and heart.
A Subscriber: "I am curious as to knowing why you say certain breathing can lock up and that your breathing is a better way? What is the difference? Isn't breathing a natural thing and something that can't mess up?"
Mike: "A natural thing and something that can't mess up?" Not in the slightest. This is a common misconception even among medical professionals.
How can there be a right way to breathe and a wrong way? There are at least 100-200 muscles and thousands of nerves that need to be working in balanced synchronicity for breathing to be good or optimal. Tighten both fists, stand on your toes or tighten your legs or bend forward and watch your breathing go a little or a lot shallower. Posture and other various tensions and nerve restrictions strongly influence the natural breathing function. Plus, anything you do the same way long enough will restrict its freedom. Your breathing is the same. Practice makes permanent, not perfect.
Think of singing. Some can. Some can not. Singing is nothing more than wind passing membranes, causing them to vibrate and resonate in a consistent, dependable way. If you can breathe right, you can learn to sing. But if you sing, you do not necessarily breathe right. Any high-quality pop, jazz, or opera singer will affirm that.
Subscriber: "This has me very worried. And are you saying that if I were to do your breathing that, you teach that it would speed up my metabolism and help me burn fat off like an exercise without sweat and all?"
Mike: I am saying that it has occurred hundreds to thousands of times. No guarantees. Just a strong probability. Not necessarily without sweat, but weight loss without sweat does often occur with proper diet over a weight loss program in the long term. Metabolism is "heat" in the form of increased fire. Sweat comes from heat. Fire comes from oxygen burning something... fat for instance.
Subscriber: "Yet if I were to choose to exercise with weights, walk, etc.. That it would just be like an added bonus? "
Mike: Hopefully, yes.
Recommendation: Get our Weight Management Program
Smoking Damage Revealed
Question: I am/was a smoker, who saw your site, took your breathing test, and have quit smoking (at least for 2 days and counting). To be able to take a breathing test and see firsthand what smoking has done to my breathing capacity was tangible evidence (specific to me, i.e. no way to say that won't happen to me) that smoking is taking my life. So I am referring this site to people that I know that smoke.
Answer: Wonderful. I strongly suggest you also get our Breathing Improvement program to regain as much lung volume as possible that smoking has cost you. It will also help keep you away from smoking. Many people smoke to relax and smoke to energize. Breathing properly gets the same results without the tar and nicotine. YOU BE THE BOSS.
Smoking and Recovering Lung Function
Question: I suffer from severe anxiety/panic attacks. I've heard breathing plays a large role in this, but I also would like to know if being an ex-smoker of 10 years, if I can get my "lung health" back? I've been smoke-free for 2 years now...any answers?
Answer: Yes, you can get your lung health back. I smoked two packs of unfiltered Camels a day for 20 years. It takes time, though. Do not wait until you are aging before you quit. The sooner, the better. Be the BOSS.
Yawning Constantly: 4 examples
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I have had this condition, where I have the constant urge to yawn, for over 7 years now. I am a healthy, physically fit 27-year-old male. At first, doctors thought it was anxiety. I went to therapy for over 2 years and tried every medication known without any relief. It is so frustrating because every test that I have had (ekg, eeg, pulmonary function test, and so on) has turned out negative. The ONLY thing that has helped is when I DO NOT EAT sugar or carbohydrates. Sugar displaces the oxygen in the blood. I am about 50% better staying away from all sweets (candy, ice cream, cookies) and limiting my carbs. Let me know if you find an answer or medication. This is so frustrating.
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I yawn hundreds of times a day. I cannot get a good, deep breath unless I make a big yawn. I must curl my tongue, open my mouth up wide and really breath deeply. This condition seems to come and go but has been really bad since the beginning of July. It started two and a half years ago. The feeling builds and builds until I can't take it anymore and must yawn to get relief. I want to know what this is, why this happens and if there is a diagnosis for this problem. Help!!!!!
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Hi Heidi, - I think I have the same thing as you, I constantly feel like I don't quite have enough air, and so I constantly sigh and do big yawns but it never seems to satisfy! I've had a million tests and everything's normal - they say its anxiety but I'm a really relaxed person! The only diagnosis any ones given me is Hyperventilation syndrome, however I've tried breathing exercises and nothing seems to work. I also sometimes feel like there pressure on my lungs or something, do you get that? have you had any success in treating it? please please reply! you're the only person I've found with anything similar!!
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Babi, you have exactly the same thing I have. I try to get a deep breath but only get maybe 80%. It's a very unsatisfying breath and results in tension which then builds as the difficulty to get a deep breath mounts. Eventually when it's at it's worse suddenly my lungs involuntarily expand to 100% and I suck in a deep satisfying breath. I read that that it's called "bracing" of the intercostal muscles where because of stress, anxiety, etc. the muscles surrounding the lungs freeze. It doesn't happen much when I'm relaxed, only when I exercise or am stressed. I can force the lungs open (sometime) with inducing a yawn but it's not 100% reliable. Try relaxing techniques. That has helped me a little but I'm still looking for something (med) that will relax the lung muscles. So far, no word on anything that works that way.
Answer: I understand. I had this myself for over 30 years. Get our Optimal Breathing Kit and practice the strapping technique and "side to side" included with the video. This program is discounted and is a good combination for you. Back off of sweets as well.
Ozone
Question: Hello Mike, I've been getting your regular emails for a couple of years now and have enjoyed them greatly. I have a question that I wonder if you could address concerning ground-level ozone. I'm not sure where I heard it but several years ago, I heard a physician talk about the fact that ozone is actually an oxidizer. That is to say that it bleaches (in a sense) in the same manner as does peroxide or chlorine bleach (chemically, more akin to peroxide, of course).
Answer: Probably so. Under certain conditions.
Question: Specifically, what it oxidizes are the sensitive areas of our lungs (the name?). I am aware that ground level ozone is officially classified as an "Irritant," "which I'm sure it is, but the big, and little-publicized, the news is that ozone can do significant damage to our lungs if one is exposed to significant amounts of it through exposure to air containing high concentrations of ground-level ozone and/or the inhalation of large amounts of air containing more moderate amounts of air as a result of strenuous physical activity.
Answer: I have met people that are "irritants as well, but in many ways, they are wonderful human beings :-)In great enough quantities by ratio to the fresh air available, yes. But it can also be used as a disinfectant. Anything to excess is negative. Ozone is easily gotten to excess but not always. It depends on what it is in relation to. Ozone is thought of as entirely negative due to its ability to grab and combine with an extra molecule such as particulate matter in exhaust emissions. But it is also used in pool filters instead of chlorine to kill mold and air-borne germs in a breathing atmosphere. But I would not want to breathe it without a constant exchange of fresh air as the ozone can get toxic pretty quickly. The application of ozone is the critical part, not that it is bad for us ALL the time because it is not. Walk out of doors after a strong electrical storm and smell the ozone fresh air. I wish it was like that ALL the time. Sit in the warm pool at Harbin Hot Springs in California (they ozone the water to clean it) and watch oxygen bubbles cling to your skin and feel your energy increase as the oxygen (O2) is absorbed into your body through your skin. I believe the oxygen bubbles come from the O3 that has lost a single molecule to have it release the extra O2 into the water.
Could you comment, confirm, and publicize this topic? Thanks! Incidentally, the television news reported that the monitoring station in Acadia National Park here on the coast of Maine (traditionally a problematic ozone region due to its downwind, "down east," geographic location) recorded its highest ozone levels ever, yesterday 7/2. Thanks for helping me learn more.
Answer: Again, ozone is being attracted to particulate matter, and so it shows up like Mighty Mouse to "save the day". But it brings with it its own natural "magnetic" attraction to debris and, therefore, gets made guilty by association.
See Ozone Therapy: That Extra Oxygen Molecule Can Work Wonders
Singing and Supporting its Foundation
Question: Hello Mike, I was wondering if you can help. Is it true to say that for singing we need to keep the diaphragm expanded, to resist its temptation to rise back up into its natural position for control of the air? Is this achieved by the following exercise: Keeping the lower ribs expanded and with hands on the waist, coughing gently 2 time,s and you should feel an outward pulse against your fingertips. A gentle but firm outward pressure. This support should be established just prior to the sound and maintained it until the end of the vocal sound.
Answer: Not happy with the cough. Also, not so much focus on the waist as many have different views of the waist. Try more in the soft area above the pelvis and below the ribs. Push out medium force with the belly muscles as you speak or sing, or do your vocal exercises.
Breathing and Movement
Breathing and movement are interrelated and in many ways, interdependent. Great dancers can not be great singers. Great singers can not be great dancers. GOOD, yes, great, no. What is YOUR choice?
When you breathe out during contraction you must then let go completely and allow the breath to enter large deep and easily. Give it time.
Develop that to the maximum now.
Golf
Question: Hello Mike, Just a few words to let you know that you are having success. I personally have benefited greatly from your breathing exercises in the Optimal Breathing Kit and as a good disciple I have been carrying the message forward. I live in North Wales UK and area once well known for its coal mines and its resulting chest and breathing problems.
I was recently playing golf with an ex miner when he started having breathing problems and was in distress so later over a drink I explained to him about different methods breathing as he said he had not been given any such advice from his Doctors. I downloaded some of your info and others off the web and posted it to him, I didn't see him for a month then one day when arriving at the club he rushed over to me grinning from ear to ear he had read my info he felt miles better but most of all was the vast improvement in the quality of his sleep ,I have made a pal for life. Many thanks and God Bless. Len M.
Answer: Good for you. Remember that will eventually reduce breathing volume. Breathing volume is THE primary marker for longevity. Whenever I get to Wales I can show both of you a special way of using breathing to improve your game.
Here is the Recommended Program to enhance relaxation and breathing ease while playing golf and to help recover the lost volume.
Exercise-induced Breathing Problems and so-called cures
Question 1:
Dear Mike, I have recently developed a difficulty with my ability in regards to deep breathing based on a substantial second-hand smoke situation, and I also hate to admit an occasional use of an illegal herb. My doctor doesn't dispute it but feels it mostly derives from my anxiety, in other words, making the existing problem worse.
I am 48 years old, in superb health, and exercise regularly and feel I am in tune with my body.
I definitely agree that I exacerbate things when I have difficulty breathing but feel there is an underlying cause that I at this point I am hopeful to try and eradicate and not just treat. I have also concluded that some of my chest tightness, which may further increase my anxiety, is derived from a recent increase in my weight lifting.
Answer:
Probably so. So stop weight lifting until you know how to do it while breathing properly.
Question 2:
Mike, I recently had a severe ankle sprain, which has caused me to decrease my cardio workouts considerably, possibly adding to my woes. The last few days howeve,r I am back at the cardio and during the activity and for a period of time afterwards felt like my old self (I felt great) but as the day wore on I could feel the strange lack of oxygen sensation I currently experience reassert it's presence. I'm not really short of breath, just can't get that full dose of air. At times, I feel fine and have never had a cough, wheezing, fatigue, or anything else other than the tightness which I explained. Is someone with early-stage COPD capable of doing what I am doing?
Answer:
Possibly, but do not think that way. Develop your breathing properly, and it will not be an issue or at least less of one.
Question:
Is there any chance the worst-case scenario is that I do indeed have something like emphysema?
Answer:
It matters less and less if you do or do not. Do what is necessary and proper to develop your breathing, and you can’t lose.
Question
Dear Mike, I have had this for about a month and feel as though I can conquer it, however. My major symptom is simply that I cannot get a good, long breath like I am used to, but I can still perform in the most vigorous of activities, it seems. Can one just get a major assault to the respiratory system and fully recover? The doctor has me on Alprazolam (Zantac), which actually does some good but is it masking the real problem, or does being effective indicate that a large part of my problem is indeed anxiety?
Answer
I agree. Anxiety is caused primarily by poor breathing. It also exposes and, if occurring enough, can cause poor breathing, reflecting, and effecting.
Question
After all, it does work as a muscle relaxant. But there are times on it or without it that I am nearly 100%. From your website, I gather you are an incredibly knowledgeable individua,l and I humbly seek your advice. I am not prepared currently to buy one of your products, but I swear to God, if I am cured, I will be strengthening my breathing techniques with one of your products for sure and offer the grandest of testimonials.
Answer
I have hundreds of great testimonials. You just need to do the correct thing now.
Question
Promise. Now I need something else. What do you think? A bad incident that will go away? I had zero problems whatsoever until one day I noticed difficulty breathing. Before that I'm out playing basketball hard with 20-year-olds regularly with no inkling of a problem. Is this something you're familiar with and I would appreciate your best advice. I am waiting for chest x-ray results sometime next week, and are there other tests I should take that you may feel are necessary?
Answer
Take the Free Breathing Tests
All breathing resistance trainers restrict breathing volume from a minor to a major level
Deep Breath Feels Awful
Question: Dear Michael, For the past nine years I have been having difficulty breathing. I constantly feel like I'm not getting enough air so I'm constantly struggling to take a deeper breath. Sometimes I can take the deeper breath and I get a feeling of satisfaction and sometimes I can't and feel awful.
Answer: I did that for 40 years.
Question: When that happens, I try again and again to take the deep breath, often contorting my body or stretching my arms out and locking them in front of me. I have been to more than one pulmonary specialist and they have all said my lungs and blood gases are perfect.
Answer: This sounds like a breathing coordination issue.
Question: One doctor said that although my lungs are taking in plenty of air, after he administered an inhaler I was taking in even more air, so perhaps I am slightly asthmatic.
Answer: That is not the way to view asthma.
Question: Anyway, the doctors told me it's all anxiety, but I have a difficult time believing that.
Answer: I agree with them, but for different reasons than they think about.
Question: I do know that anxiety makes it worse, but I do think there is some underlying cause. Perhaps skeletal etc.
Answer: Breathing coordination.
Question: Anyway, it's awful. I feel like living is a struggle and I have a difficult time doing work. I tried Prozac at one point and it helped somewhat, but not completely. (and I was on a high dose of it too)
Answer: It only addresses symptoms, not causes.
Question: I guess I should probably do more tests, but I do not have insurance as I am self employed. Unfortunately, no insurance company will take me because I am recovering from an eating disorder so they see me as a risk. I will do anything to help myself at this point. Do you have any suggestions? I will even come to NC to work with you if you feel you can help me. I will try to call you tomorrow, but I'm sending this, just in case I can't reach you by phone tomorrow.
Answer: Get this recommended program
