Blocked or runny nose? You can change it right now by changing your breathing

Blocked or runny nose? You can change it right now by changing your breathing

All you have to do is trap a little more carbon dioxide in. An easy way to do this is:

• Take a normal, unforced breath in
• Let a little bit of air out so you are not full
• Then pinch your nose closed, and hold your breath. [Mouth closed!]
• Hold only for about 5 seconds after your first desire to take a breath. Do not hold as long as you can, as this will make control of your breathing when you stop holding more difficult.
• When you release your nose and start breathing again, breathe as little as possible. Keep very still. This will keep the carbon dioxide you have trapped in, so that it can open your nose.

If you are not sure if your nose is clearer, simply repeat this simple exercise a few times with about 15 seconds between each breath hold.

If you managed to make a change in how blocked your nose is, [or even cleared it completely] then you have just been more successful than years of drugs or surgery can be.

If you already breathe mostly through your nose, and still get asthma or migraine or hayfever, then you are ready for the next step in Buteyko.