Breathe of life
Effective breathing relies on good posture, good energy and a balanced physique. Without good alignment it is not possible for your rib cage and diaphragm to work correctly. Interestingly poor breathing ailments such as asthma are directly associated with changes of bodies breathing technique; asthmatics usually upper chest breathe which means they round their shoulder and pull their upper ribs pull up to expand the lungs(which is meant to be a secondary breathing function) causing a lot of tension in the neck and shoulders. The correct technique is primarily that the diaphragm bellows, at the base of the rib cage, and lifts to expand the lower rib cage.
Breathing techniques will change in response to mental or physical stress, injury and most definitely a state of pain. Correct, rhythmical and balanced breathing control can help to manage stress and pain. However it is important to note that intense emphasis on breathing techniques can actually make you hyperventilate, and in extreme situation cause a panic attack, therefore breathing exercises have to be understood and managed carefully. It is possible to control your body’s response to a situation by moderating your breathing so that it is slow and rhythmical. It is also a useful tool when you are exercising to focus your effort.
Steady breath control can also be useful when moving, particularly changing positions if you have active/acute back pain, and or moderate spasm and cramp. By controlling and pacing your breathing it ensures a good oxygen supply to your muscles and can stop them tensing which in turn helps to control the pain. Deep steady breathing can be invaluable for relaxing at the end of the day, after a busy or stressful event and particularly before sleep.
Exercise is not about what you do it is about how well you do it. You should enjoy your body moving and be able to breathe comfortably throughout any exercise programme. In my opinion if your breathing is laboured your body is laboured. At the end of day breathe is life!
