Are we understressing our lungs?
"Quite clearly. Anyone who sits or lies down a lot can damage their lungs in the long term, as the periphery of the lungs is not sufficiently ventilated. Deep breathing during physical activity ventilates areas of the lungs that are hardly used when breathing shallowly at rest - the organ is then properly ventilated. If this is lacking due to inactivity or severe obesity, there is a risk of lung dysfunction. The bronchial tubes can become hypersensitive and the self-cleaning mechanisms are disrupted. In the long term, this promotes infections and diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)."
How much activity does she want?
"You can't say that across the board. But one thing is clear: a little is better than nothing - even if it's just a few minutes a day. The important thing is to intensify your breathing. Breathing a little faster is enough to ensure that even the remote bronchial tubes are supplied with oxygen."
Sick people prefer not to move ...
"We now know that little activity tends to make respiratory diseases worse. However, a person with COPD or chronic bronchitis will experience exercise as unpleasant or perhaps even threatening, as they find it difficult to breathe. It is therefore very important that patients are
ways in which exercise is possible."
What about an acute infection?
"In the case of a respiratory infection, temporary rest makes perfect sense. But we still need good ventilation of the lungs. That's why you shouldn't exercise during an infection, but you should certainly stand up and breathe deeply with simple exercises. Inhalations and well-tolerated herbal preparations support the body's self-cleansing process."
Preventing a persistent inflammatory cough COPD
In chronic lung patients, the airways are permanently inflamed. The result: bronchial congestion and coughing. The disease can develop into chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the airways become even narrower. Those affected shy away from physical activity. But
studies have shown: Just two hours of walking per week has a significantly positive effect on the lungs.
The 4-point plan: Take a deep breath!
1 Fresh air: A walk in the woods invigorates body and mind, the low-dust air is good for the lungs. Or: open the window and take a deep breath.
2 Sufficient fluids: We lose around 2.5 liters of fluid per day. Therefore, drink at least 1.5 liters of water or tea per day.
3 Self-cleaning of the airways: This protects the bronchial tubes from dust and other small particles in the air. Products from the pharmacy support this (e.g. GeloMyrtol forte).
4 Conscious "me time": You should specifically plan time for yourself - for something you enjoy. This becomes an island of peace in your day.