Five ways to keep the lungs healthy during self-isolation

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The world has never seen a pandemic such as this in a long time. Non-essential workers are asked to stay home to keep COVID-19 from spreading. While on lockdown, people are encouraged to learn new skills and take on new exercises echoes Dr. Mark Hochberg MD.

For a healthy person, breathing is an easy task to do. However, not every healthy person knows how to breathe the right way. Belly breathers teach a person to use their diaphragm when breathing instead of the chest and shoulders. When chest and shoulders are used for breathing, breaths are shallow, which can cause one to hyperventilate.

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With proper breathing in check, it's time to workout. Regular exercise increases lung capacity as it improves respiratory muscles. Interval strength training helps a person ease into the habit of exercising. Interval strength training workouts won't leave one out of breath, but will surely encourage them to breathe right. Jogging in place is a light start to a cardio workout. Variations such as butt kicks and high knees will surely get the heart rate going.

Jumping jacks open up the chest, explains Dr. Mark Hochberg MD. This exercise keeps the heart rate up, opens the chest, and strengthens the core. In proper breathing, a strong and engaged core is important. Jump squats engage the core, expand the chest, and strengthen the legs. Following this short and simple workout routine, starting from the belly breathers ensures that a person's respiratory muscles are strengthened, and their overall health improved.