To breathe properly while singing, you want to breathe low into the bottom portion of the lungs, keeping your shoulders still and expanding your rib cage and back. Use this method:

1. Breathe in for four counts.
2. Exhale for four counts.
3. Pause for four more counts before inhaling again.

Breathing this way relaxes your muscles and prepares them for vocal use.

You can also try lying on the floor and breathing that way. It is hard to breathe improperly in this position. You may remember Chris Daughtry from last season's American Idol being coached to sing this way. Go ahead and try it. When you lie on your back, your organs become naturally aligned and proper breathing becomes effortless.