Probably not what you mean but when my wife makes plans that includes me and doesn’t tell me I exhale really loud, haha. Nah I was heavier and would hold my breath subconsciously. I think some of it was stress but I think the weight loss has helped.
Only partially related, but there seems to be a connection between mindful breathing (breathing exercises) and metabolism
“How better breathing can boost metabolism. The oxygen in the air you breathe enters the blood stream through the lungs. By mindfully adding efficiency to your breathing, your help our cells receive more oxygen, and produce more energy; this helps increase your metabolism.”
It could be worth a try to give mindful breathing a try. It could strengthen your breathing, causing it to be less labored, less forceful, and more energizing.
I am not a doctor. This is not medical advice. Please see a real doctor. Labored or loud breathing could be a symptom of some underlying condition.