You know when you're stressed and someone tells you to "take a deep breath"? Isn't that the most annoying thing in the world??
I'm going to reveal why that annoying sentence is physiologically true.
We'll also learn how to breathe correctly, and the benefits of belly breathing.
What is belly breathing?
Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, is breathing done mostly by contracting the diaphragm and less by expanding the ribcage.
It means breathing deeply from the belly, which lets the diaphragm fully expand and contract with every breath.
What are the benefits of belly breathing?
Our diaphragm has three openings that connect the respiratory system with three other systems – the digestive system, the nervous system and the circulatory system.
When we breathe from the belly, we make the work of these systems easier:
Circulation – through the innermost opening passes the aorta, which is responsible for blood flow through the body; through the front opening passes the inferior vena cava, which carries blood from the body back to the heart. So good movement of the diaphragm affects blood flow and balances our blood pressure.
Digestion – through the middle opening passes the oesophagus, which carries food to the stomach, so diaphragmatic breathing can ease the digestive process.
The nervous system – the same opening that the oesophagus passes through also carries the vagus nerve, the main nerve of the parasympathetic system (which works in states of calm – during rest, digestion and so on). So correct breathing activates the vagus nerve and calms the nervous system.
Diaphragmatic breathing is a technique used to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
This kind of breathing can improve lung function and the flow of oxygen and blood through the circulation, and may even lower blood pressure.
Diaphragmatic breathing is often used in practices like meditation, yoga, mindfulness and more.
The good news is that you don't have to be in a class to improve your breathing – you can, and should, practise it on your own during the day!
By adding diaphragmatic breathing to your routine, you can improve your physical and mental health with simple actions.
So how do we start?
I invite you to practise with us at a special yoga workshop as part of our summer celebrations at the studio.
On 9.6.23 at 8:00 we'll practise together, learn about belly breathing and how to do it, and go deeper into its benefits.
To sign up, go to the app or message us!
Looking forward to seeing you!
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