Most obvious is to avoid injury to the lungs, such as smoking (electric or plant-based) and avoid environmental exposure. Maintain exercise and cardio, as this optimizes blood flow, lymphatic drainage and clears the lining of the lungs It is advisable to have the lungs checked by a medical professional if there are ever concerns.

Ensuring the diaphragm is strong and flexible comes primarily from breathing optimally. Practices such as yoga can be very effective, as the focus is on the breath while holding a physically challenging position. It is both mindfulness and discipline that is centered around optimizing breathing. Other options include respiratory therapy exercises, of which the gold standard is using a spirometer.

Most people do not know the benefits of manual therapy to help treat conditions. Techniques such as neural therapy or osteopathic manipulative therapy can provide immediate benefit for clearing the lungs. Other forms of manual therapy and even stretching can also be beneficial to maintaining healthy lungs.

Sixty percent of our lymphatic drainage stems from how optimally our diaphragm is moving. We often don’t expand our diaphragm as efficiently as we should. For example, when under a lot of stress, our breathing is more shallow and rapid, which could lead to poor toxin drainage and ultimately contribute to disease. Something else amazing is that the whole body is connected. There are many body parts that are intimately connected to the lungs such as certain teeth, parts of the ears, hands and even feet. Maintaining an overall healthy body, mind and spirit is key to having healthy lungs.