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[Guitarman230]

Just want to let everybody know ,do you know what really helps COPD a mouth organ .I used to be a street busker singing with the guitar .unfortunatly i dont have the breath to sing anymore. So i bought a C harmonica and am Learning to play it , this has made a big difference to my breathing and i have only been doing this for a Short time. When you think about it this is really exercising and strengthening the lungs, as you are blowing and Sucking all the time. Since i have been doing this i no longer have to take a nap in the afternoon. They are not expensive i got one on ebay for 10 Euro and there are loads of Videos on you tube explaining how to play it . This is also good for these cold dark winter depressing days when there is nothing to do but look out the Window . Well just thought i would share that with you all. Merry Christmas, and a Happy new year when it comes . All the best Frankie.

[Hidden]

thankyou Mr Guitarman. You have just given me my project for 2023. I used to play the flute and I was thinking to buy a new one but I think that I will have more fun with a harmonica. Happy New Year.

[sassy59]

I must look into getting Pete one as it sounds like a good idea. Thank you and happy new year to you. Xxx

[MoyB]

Look for the Chris Startup online groups put on by Asthma+lung. We've done two 6 week courses now and have thoroughly enjoyed them. You can pay to join Chris's other ongoing groups but the initial basic course (free) is very good at getting your lungs going, whatever your ability to puff and blow!

You are so right about them being good for your lungs. The exercise is great for them and you can sit in your chair and do it, even when you're not feeling so good.

Yes, harmonicas can be bought very cheaply now on Amazon. Under £10 for a basic 10 hole c major.

I hope you continue to get pleasure from it. Maybe post a video of yourself one day if you can.

Xx Moy

[GD53]

Thankyou Guitarman 230. Sounds like a fabulous idea and although never played the harmonica before sure it will be fun.Love music and singing, not very good depending whether having a good or bad day.

Roll on 2023, looking forward to an enjoyable 😉 and new project.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy New Year. Dawn.xx

[Izb1]

Sounds like fun Guitarman230, I think a few on here already have one, may look into this. Happy New Year to you x

[tomhatha]

I'm a guitarist and I found thaat singing helped me I sing for about an hour or two each day I've also hot a harmonica I had forgotten that until I read about you. My PSG was the best,3 foot pedals and 5 knee leavers it's really relaxing. good luck and get some working mans gigs and someone to sends you to gigs

[Alberta56]

Sounds very interesting. My husband never used to care for me practicing the piano: I don't know what he would make of a harmonica. (I could tell him I'm emulating John Lennon or Bob Dylan.)

[micox]

Thanks. Might just work for essential tremors. I've had to give up everything else.

[eleanordigby]

Sorry to rain on the parade (and I love the sound of a harmonica) but, even amongst healthy people, there’s an increased risk of bacterial and fungal chest infection associated with any instrument using the breath. They’re impossible to clean properly. Just thought I should mention this 😕

[FormerT in reply to eleanordigby]

Really? Until 2020 I played trombone in various bands for more than fifty years. The benefits both socially and health-wise far outweighed any risk of chest infections and helped curtail the progress of my COPD. My instruments got a weekly wash in the bath - no problem! Not sure how you'd clean a mouth organ but don't be deterred from practising.

[eleanordigby in reply to FormerT]

Yes, really brit-thoracic.org.uk/news/2...

[saltyskies]

yes! A bit of expiratory positive pressure…but with more enjoyable outcomes than the old Aerobika! Hope you keep enjoying your mouth organ ❤️

[Bingo88]

Very interesting information. I know that singing also helps with breathing problems as well. So pleased it's helping you. And I shall have to try it myself. Happy New Year to you as well. Brian