Well I can't take a full breath when I try it. I don't know how to do it, exactly, any advice? Try these exercises:
1) place one hand on your stomach, the other in the small of your back. Since your diaphragm takes up some space in the back as well as the front, it is important to fill both parts with air. When you breathe in, you should feel your hands being pushed outward (you can obviously see the hand move in front. This lets you know that you are filling to your full capacity.)
2) Lay on your back with a book on your stomach. Inhale and exhale slowly, allowing the air to fill your diaphragm. If you do this properly, the book will rise. Make sure you get up slowly when you're done. If not, you can get lightheaded and even pass out.
Keep practicing this and your breathing will improve. After practicing for so long, I don't even breathe through my chest anymore. All diaphragm all the time. It's good stuff.
Good luck! Try expanding your stomach when you inhale and then slowly let out the air by sucking in your stomach as you sing the lyrics to whatever song you're singing. Since "diaphragm" breathing is not ever correct terminology in vocal music, I advise you to stop researching the internet. Locate a qualified vocal instructor in your area and spend the time and money with the person learning how to sing properly. I promise you it will be worth it. I have been training for years, and I can tell you right now, there is no way to learn to sing properly by reading internet material and attempting to teach yourself. | 