Stress and anxiety are common problems for people living with COPD. Physical symptoms like shortness of breath can cause stress or make it feel worse. Do you have a hard time slowing down and feeling calm? Many people find that meditation helps.
What is meditation?
Meditation is a practice that helps you focus your attention and calm your mind. It is a helpful tool for you to stop and be present with yourself.1 It can be as simple as paying attention to your breath, repeating a word, or taking a quiet moment to notice the things you see and hear.
How can meditation help with COPD?
People with COPD may find meditation helpful in a few ways. Meditation:
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Having COPD often comes with higher levels of anxiety and stress, which can lead to exacerbations. Practicing mediation regularly promotes relaxation and can lower anxiety levels.1
- Supports better breathing awareness: Meditation techniques can help people learn to control their breathing patterns.1
- Improves overall well-being: Studies have shown that people who engage in meditation and mindfulness practices report improvements in overall quality of life.1 This includes better mood, improved sleep patterns, and higher energy levels.
- May help during flare-ups: Some techniques can be used in the moment to ease panic related to breathlessness.
- Mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation helps people prioritize being present in the moment. This can help them be more aware of their bodies and breathing.
Meditation techniques to try
If you’re new to meditation, here are a few techniques you could try:
- Breathing meditation: Focus on taking slow, steady breaths. Try inhaling through your nose and exhaling through pursed lips.
- Mantra meditation: Mantra meditation involves repeating words or phrases to focus the mind.2 Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and repeat the mantra chant out loud for as long as you choose. You could use more traditional meditational chants, like “om,” or self-affirmations, like “It is well with my soul.”
- Mindfulness moments: This technique is about being aware and present.2 Take a few minutes to notice your surroundings and feel all of your senses. You can practice mindful meditation even while doing daily activities.
Tips for getting started
- Start small. Try just 2–5 minutes at a time.
- Choose a comfortable position (sitting or lying down).
- Try practicing at the same time each day.
Meditation looks different for everyone, and it may take time to find what works best for you.
Have you tried meditation or relaxation techniques with COPD?
What has helped you feel calmer or breathe easier? Share your experience in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
References
- Kingsley CK. Meditation and its effects on COPD. Lung Institute. Accessed April 15, 2026. https://lunginstitute.com/meditation-and-its-effects-on-copd/.
- Kingsley CK. 5 types of daily meditation for COPD. Lung Institute. Accessed April 15, 2026. https://lunginstitute.com/types-of-daily-meditation-for-copd/.