Shaped breathing
Some people find that focusing on a certain shape when breathless helps settle their breathing. Try different shapes and see what works best for you.
Rectangle breathing
Follow the edges of a rectangle with your eyes in time with your breathing.
Breathe in along the short side and breathe out along the long side.
Gradually slow down the speed you follow the edge of the rectangle to help you slow and settle your breathing.
Some people prefer to close their eyes and imagine a rectangle in their mind.
Five-finger breathing
Hold up one of your hands with your palm facing you. Slowly trace up and down each finger using a finger of your other hand. Follow your tracing finger with your eyes. Or you may prefer to close your eyes.
Breathe in as you trace along your finger to the fingertip, and breathe out as you come back down the finger towards your palm.
Gradually slow down the speed you move your finger to help slow and settle your breathing.
Other strategies
Click to find out about useful strategies for breaking the Breathing cycle.
This website describes some practical ways to help you manage day-to-day long-term breathlessness. It has useful information for people with lung conditions, their carers, and the health professionals supporting them.
If your breathing is getting rapidly worse or you have new symptoms, it is important to seek prompt medical review or call 000. This website is not designed for people who have a new undiagnosed breathing problem or a sudden deterioration. It is not a substitute for medical assessment.