Breathe Better: My Journey from Chronic Respiratory Issues to Lung Health
Breathing—it’s one of those things you don’t think about until it becomes a problem. My battle with breathing started as a young athlete, where sports-induced asthma and chronic bronchitis became unwelcome teammates. It got so bad that one of my high school hockey coaches nicknamed me “Wheezer.” For years, I relied on inhalers and meds just to keep up. Then, a few moves, some serendipitous encounters, and a dash of determination changed everything. Here’s how I went from puffing on inhalers like they were party favors to managing my symptoms naturally.
A Tale of Two Environments
Back in the day, I was on more medications than I care to admit. Between the asthma and my annual "welcome back, bronchitis" events, I was juggling inhalers like they were going out of style. But then I moved to Colorado. Cue: angels singing. Suddenly, I could breathe freely! The dry, clean air worked wonders, and for the first time in years, I wasn’t constantly gasping for air.
Fast forward to moving back to Michigan. Within months, I was coughing, wheezing, and eyeing my old meds like an ex you know you shouldn’t text but probably will. Instead of jumping back into the pharmaceutical carousel, I made a lucky connection with an entrepreneur who introduced me to shilajit (click for a deeper dive into shilajit) and other supplements. Combine that with yoga and Buteyko breathing, and suddenly, I was back in control of my lungs. It felt like I’d stumbled upon one of the best-kept secrets.
Breathing Techniques that Changed the Game
Buteyko Breathing
This isn’t just about breathing less dramatically— it’s a method designed to reduce hyperventilation and restore calm, nasal breathing. Slowing my breath and focusing on control made a massive difference. My asthma symptoms started to subside, and I felt like I’d found a secret cheat code for lung health.
Yoga and Pranayama
Yoga’s breathing exercises, or pranayama, aren’t just for yogis trying to look zen on Instagram. These practices taught me how to strengthen my diaphragm and boost oxygen efficiency. My favorites? Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) and diaphragmatic breathing. Think of them as lung workouts, but without the gym membership.
Video by Dr. Beau Beard
Learn how diaphragmatic breathing helps restore proper stabilization patterns, reduce pain, and improve function. This technique aligns the thoracic diaphragm and pelvic floor, optimizing the Zone of Apposition (ZOA) and enhancing Intra-Abdominal Pressure (IAP).
The Herbal Dream Team for Lungs
When breathing got tough, I turned to nature for backup. Here’s the starting lineup:
Mullein: This herb is like a gentle hug for your lungs, helping to expel mucus and soothe irritation.
Thyme: Packed with thymol, it’s basically a natural lung disinfectant.
Shilajit: The MVP of supplements, it reduces inflammation and supports overall respiratory function.
Licorice Root: Soothes the throat and clears out congestion like a pro.
Eucalyptus: Opens airways and makes you feel like you’re breathing in a crisp mountain morning.
These herbs, along with my new breathing techniques, became my go-to tools for managing symptoms and ditching the meds.
Lessons from the Air Around Us
My experience also taught me a thing or two about the environment. Air quality matters—a lot. If you can’t pack up and move to the Rockies, there are still ways to improve your surroundings:
Invest in a good air purifier.
Keep your home dust-free.
Spend time outdoors when the air is fresh.
It’s not just about where you live, but how you live.
The Bottom Line
Breathing issues don’t have to control your life. Through simple changes—like breathing techniques, herbal remedies, and environmental awareness—you can take back control. Whether you’re managing asthma, chronic bronchitis, or just want to breathe easier, these strategies may make a difference for you. Trust me, if I can find a way to breathe more freely, there’s hope for anyone. It’s amazing what’s possible with the right tools and a little determination.
Research Cited
Djamaladdin A, et al. Buteyko breathing technique for asthma management. Journal of Thoracic Disease, 2017.
Bhavanani, AB, et al. Pranayama and respiratory health. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2018.
Manzoor, A, et al. Mullein and respiratory benefits. Pharmacognosy Review, 2014.
Karaleti, M, et al. Thyme and antimicrobial properties. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2017.
Shakirov, S, et al. Shilajit’s adaptogenic effects. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012.
Dehkharghani, A, et al. Licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties. Phytotherapy Research, 2015.
Juergens, UR, et al. Eucalyptus and respiratory health. Respiratory Research, 2013.
