Several patients with poliomyelitic paralysis of the muscles used in normal breathing learned a method of breathing consisting of pumping air into the lungs by action of the mouth, cheeks, tongue, pharynx and larynx. The advantages of the method are that the patient can be out of the respirator and on a conventional bed for longer periods, can talk longer and louder, is more easily cared for, and is better able to engage in interesting occupations.