03/04/2026
Breathing properly is one of the simplest, most instinctive things we do - or at least, it should be. Yet for many adults, the mechanics of a healthy breath quietly drift off course over the years, and the consequences can be significant.
In 2003, researchers examined the breathing patterns of 96 adults. About 75% of adults studied did not breathe the way the body is designed to.
Most participants showed limited rib‑cage movement or relied heavily on upper‑chest muscles. And when asked to take a deep breath, nearly three‑quarters lifted their chests instead of engaging the diaphragm.
If breathing is automatic, how do so many of us end up doing it inefficiently? What does that mean for our overall health, energy, and stress levels? Ineffective breathing doesn't have to be a permanent problem, but we need to be intentional to change it.
Let's explore how we can reclaim a healthier, more natural breath in this week's blog, "Breathe Like a Baby."
https://www.dupagefamilywellness.com/blog/healthy-lifestyle/654-breathing-properly