Place a watch nearby. Breathe slowly, deeply and regularly for one or several minutes, inhaling the air each time through the nose and exhaling it either the same way or through both nose and mouth simultaneously. From twelve to sixteen respirations should be done per minute.
Try occasionally to breathe with the diaphragm, that is, instead of first allowing the chest to expand, when inhaling, push the abdomen and diaphragm out first during the beginning of the inhalation and the chest during the latter half part of it. This is beneficial for all the digestive organs and their nerves. The most important thing is to breathe deeply, so that the air also reaches the bottom or points of the lungs. Of course, twelve or sixteen respirations can be taken per minute and the lungs become only half-filled just the same. This will not be of any benefit. On the contrary, it might cause anaemia, and its accompanists, such as neurasthenia, melancholia, fear, etc. Breathing in the right way will produce better blood, more nerve power, and last, but not least, a good humor.
Apropos humor,—there are authors who, now and then in the titles of their books or articles, admonish one to be cheerful, to laugh and smile so as to avoid illness. Further perusal of the text, however, will show that they admit that this depends chiefly upon the physical condition, and they advise the practice of exercises, in order to make people physically fit first. This is, of course, true, since it is difficult for most people to be of a good disposition and smile and laugh when the body is not in fit condition.
SPECIAL AND GENERAL DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES
These breathing exercises done separately or between the massage exercises will develop the chest and lungs. Causing more oxygen to be introduced into the blood and increased elimination of carbonic-acid gas, the blood is enriched, the energy increased and power developed to withstand or repulse attacks of disease. A direct as well as an indirect influence is also produced upon all the vital organs of the body.
The Special Deep Breathing Exercise
No. I
Position.—Standing or sitting erect, with shoulders back, but without strain, arms hung loosely downward to sides.
1. Inhale as deeply as possible through the nose.
2. Retain the air for one or two seconds.