Breathing Exercises

Lipedema breathing exercises stimulate the movement of lymph in the trunk through diaphragmatic breathing and muscle movement. Modify this exercise if you have shoulder range of motion limits or other arm issues. Stand or lean against a wall if balance is an issue.

Repeat this exercise for 10 deep breaths in the morning and 10 deep breaths in the evening:

• Stand with feet shoulder width apart, put your arms down with palms touching the front of your thighs and relax.

• Inhale deeply as you swing your arms up towards the ceiling, as far as you can reach comfortably. Pause briefly at the top.

• Exhale as you bring your arms down to the starting position.

• Pause briefly and repeat for 10 breaths.

By Emily Iker, MD