Uplift the right rib cage region.

Caution: Breathing exercises presented here are not for people with osteoporosis, osteopenia, or fragile bones. If you have a history of tumors, pneumothorax, or hemothorax, you will need to seek medical advice and/or supervision prior to performing any breathing exercises.

Purpose: To expand the right rib cage (note: not usually necessary for the left rib cage).

Schedule: Perform Breathing Exercise Stages 1 - 3 together in one session.

Start: Begin by sitting down in a comfortable, upright position with your feet placed firmly on the ground.

Step 1: Place your left and right hands as follows:

Left Hand: Fingers firmly on the lowest right rib, and lift upward.
Right Hand: Fingers underneath lower edge of right ribcage, and push inward.

Step 2: Breathe in and out 5 times, inhaling more deeply each time.

Step 3: Keeping hands in same position, slightly side-bend your torso to the left, and then backward.

Step 4: Breathe in and out 5 times, inhaling more deeply each time.

Step 5: Try to move the fingers of your right hand a little deeper into the tissues below your lowest rib and move your left hand to the next rib up.

End: Repeat Steps 2 – 5 until you reach your highest rib.

Observe: Breathe a few times, and you will notice that you are able to inhale better. Sniff the air and open your nostrils - no more breathing through the mouth!

Progress: You have completed this exercise set! Please continue on to Breathing Exercise Stage 4 when you are ready.