Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 20, Number 30, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 16 December 1898 — Lung Gymnastics. [ARTICLE]

Lung Gymnastics.

Direct gymnastics for the lungs, to increase their capacity and elasticity, are almost a safeguard against consumption, if taken in time. Dr. Otis, in the Therapeutic Gazette, advises people with weak lungs to stand erect in a well ventilated room, place the hands on the hips and take long, deep, slow breaths, varying the rythm, and at times taking short, jerky breaths for varietj'. The breath should be drawn only through the nose. Better yet, combine the breathing exercises with the setting up drill or other arm exercises. Dr. Otis gives these exercises, to which others might be added: 1. Slowly raise the arms from the sides until they meet above the head, breathing deeply. Breathe out while slowly lowering. 2. Raise the arms in front; carry them as far back as possible; then down. Breathe as before. 3. Slowly rise upon the toes, breathing deeply. 4. Extend the arms in front; carry one leg back as far as possible. 5. Lie on the back; raise the arms backward and over the head, while breathing deeply. People with plenty of lung capacity can stand aven bad air without suffering. It is well known that women, whose lung capacity is interfered with by corsets, are much more apt to faint in close, ill ventilated rooms than men.