CORRECT BREATHING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 2430, 18 May 1922, Page 4

CORRECT BREATHING.

Correct breathing is a most important function of the body, and a great preventive of disease, especially lung trouble. Many people make the mistake of breathing only with the upper part of the lungs instead of the whole. All singers who are taught correct breathing pay ■special attention to this point, but i; is one which should he appreciated by every woman who values her health. When practising this exercise discard all tight-fitting garments, stand erect out of doors, or indoors in a well-ventilated room, clasp the lower part of the ribs with a hand on each side, the tips of fingers lightly touching. Do not raise the shoulders, but take a slow, deep breath until the lungs are filled —that is, until no more air can he taken in comfortably. There must be no forcing or exaggeration in this exercise; hold the breath for three seconds, and then exhale, gently and evenly. The breath must not lie' held too leng or the exercise repeated more than a dozen times consecutively at first. Beginners sometimes feel a sensation of dizziness, but this will gradually pass as they become accustomed to using their lungs properly. Childi’en and grown-ups should practice correct breathing. It purifies and enriches the blood consequently improving the complexion. The benefit in I lie general health is often remarkable.