Power Breathing Therapy

After a crippling accident or a violent assault, once strong bodies are weakened. recovery may be slow, even in those who were previously athletic. The muscles are depleted of their oxygen supply and the body’s entire circulatory system is compromised making a thorough recovery of strength and energy very difficult.

Here is a technique to help people who cannot seem to get their physical strength back well enough even to begin recuperative physical activity. This exercise helps to increase lung capacity and muscle strength.

Power breathing can be done as ofen as you feel comfortable doing it and at any time that it is convenient. It is best done while lying down.

While relaxed, breathe in as deeply as possible while counting to the number “7.” With each successive number, increase the tension in all of the muscles of the body. Tense the muscles of the legs and torso and clench the fists. Hold this tension for a count of “3.” Exhale to the count of “7,” while slowly releasing the tension in all of the muscles. Hold this relaxed state for the count of “3.”

Repeat this exercise in sets of 10 to 15 repetitions.

For some people, when they first begin this exercise, they may not be able to do as many as 10 repetitions in a row. In this case, rest as needed. Each act of tensing the muscles while inhaling life-giving oxygen, strengthens the muscles and increases circulation. Take it slowly and gradually increase the number of repetitions and the number of sets.

This exercise is intended to promote not only strength and increased lung capacity, but a sense of relaxed control that survivors of accidents or violences need to regain their peace of mind. It should always be done in the most relaxed environment possible for the best results.