How do you do pursed-lip breathing?
Inhale gently through your nose, then breathe out more slowly through lightly pursed lips, as if cooling hot food. Avoid pushing the air out forcefully.
Exercises
Pursed-Lip Breathing
A gentle pattern with a longer exhale through pursed lips.
How to practice
Pursed-lip breathing uses a short nasal inhale and a longer exhale through lightly pursed lips.
- Inhale gently through the nose.
- Purse your lips as if cooling soup.
- Exhale slowly for twice as long.
- Keep the neck and shoulders relaxed.
Best for
A slower exhaleGentle breathing supportNo-hold practice
Caution
This is general education. People with lung conditions should follow their care plan.
Sources
Pursed-Lip Breathing questions
Why is the exhale longer in pursed-lip breathing?
The technique uses a slower exhale to make breathing feel more controlled. People with lung conditions should use the timing recommended in their individual care plan.
When does shortness of breath need urgent help?
Seek urgent medical help for severe or sudden breathing difficulty, blue lips, fainting, confusion, or chest pain. An online breathing timer cannot diagnose the cause.
Inhale
Pursed-Lip Breathing
Inhale2s