Long COVID Self-Management - Window or Rectangular Breathing
The window breathing method is used to help get your breathing back to a normal rhythm. It can also distract a person when they are feeling anxious or having trouble breathing. It is important that each in-breath be shorter than each out-breath.
How to Perform the Window Breathing Method
- Imagine a rectangle (you could look at a TV screen or picture frame if needed).
- Start by placing your eyes at the bottom of a short side of the rectangle.
- Inhale as you move your eyes up this short side.
- When you reach the start of a long side of the rectangle, continue following this line and breathe out.
- Continue this pattern with the next two sides.
- Slow the speed your eyes move around the rectangle. This will help slow your breathing.