What It Means to “Be Clear” When Living with Bronchiectasis

When I talk about being clear with bronchiectasis, I don’t just mean lung function.

I mean clarity in three essential areas:

• Clear lungs
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• A mind free of misconceptions
  
  
• A spirit unburdened by fear
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Each of these plays a vital role in how we manage bronchiectasis and how fully we live.

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1. Keeping Your Lungs Clear with Bronchiectasis

Maintaining open, mucus-free airways is the foundation of bronchiectasis self-care. Daily airway clearance helps:

• Prevent infection
  
  
• Improve breathing capacity
  
  
• Support energy for everyday activities

What to Include in an Airway Clearance Routine

• Breathing techniques such as the Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT) or autogenic drainage
  
  
• Regular physical activity like walking, yoga, or pulmonary rehab
  
  
• Airway clearance devices such as Aerobika®, Acapella®, or chest wall oscillation vests
  
  

Consistency is key, whether you are newly diagnosed or have lived with bronchiectasis for decades.
For a deeper dive, explore my airway clearance Youtube playlist.

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2. Clearing Up Misconceptions About Bronchiectasis

Clear lungs are only part of the picture. We also need clear minds—free from misinformation. Unfortunately, inaccurate advice is common in online groups and social media. While personal stories can be comforting, they are not always based in science.

Where to Find Reliable Information

• Medical institutions: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, National Jewish Health
  
  
• International organizations: EMBARC, Bronchiectasis and NTM Association
  
  
• Trusted resources: The Resources Page on this website where I share research, webinars, and patient education tools
  
  

Accurate knowledge reduces unnecessary worry, builds confidence, and empowers you to partner effectively with your care team.

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3. Releasing Fear and Emotional Stress from Bronchiectasis

A bronchiectasis diagnosis often stirs strong emotions, including:

• Anger over delayed diagnosis or lung damage​

• Frustration with daily treatments
  
  
• Grief over lifestyle changes
  
  

These feelings are valid. But if left unaddressed, they can increase stress, weaken the immune system, and interfere with healing.
Strategies to Support Emotional Health

• Counseling or therapy for mental well-being
  
  
• Journaling to process thoughts and emotions
  
  
• Restorative practices such as yoga, meditation, or The Art of Jin Shin (which I personally use to restore balance)
  
  

Caring for emotional health is just as important as managing physical symptoms.

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Living Well by Being Clear in Body, Mind, and Spirit

When we commit to clarity in our lungs, mind, and spirit, we do more than manage bronchiectasis—we create conditions to thrive. By practicing daily airway clearance, choosing evidence-based knowledge, and tending to emotional well-being, we strengthen both our lungs and our overall quality of life.

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