Five Breathing Exercises That Boost Your Overall Health

Popular among athletes and those in high-stress environments, box breathing involves inhaling, holding, exhaling, and pausing for equal counts. Image: Unsplash

Developed by Dr. Andrew Weil, the 4-7-8 method involves inhaling for four seconds, holding the breath for seven seconds, and exhaling for eight seconds. This exercise is particularly effective for pro Image: Pixabay

A staple in yoga practice, alternate nostril breathing involves closing one nostril while inhaling through the other, then switching nostrils to exhale. Image: Unsplash

abdominal or belly breathing, diaphragmatic breathing focuses on engaging the diaphragm fully. Image: Unsplash

Often used by individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pursed-lip breathing involves inhaling through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips. Image: Unsplash