Understanding Belly Breathing

Unraveling the Mystery of Belly Breathing: A Closer Look at Effective Breathing Techniques

Today we're diving into the world of breathing techniques. Specifically, we're exploring the concept of belly breathing and whether it's truly the ultimate way to breathe. Let's get started.

During a recent session with one of my clients, we discussed breathing and its impact on overall well-being. She had experience with various fitness methods and personal training, and our conversation led us to an interesting question: Is belly breathing the go-to method for effective breathing?

My client had been dealing with some dizziness and neck discomfort, which got me thinking about the connection between her ribcage and her breathing patterns. I incorporated rib cage breathing into our session using a magic butt ball to encourage lateral mobility. Improving her ribcage mobility might help alleviate her vertigo and neck issues. During our session, she asked, "Aren't we supposed to belly breathe?" She said she struggled with belly breathing and felt she wasn't doing it correctly. This sparked an insightful discussion.

Let's break it down further. There's been a trend toward emphasizing belly breathing as the "right" way. However, as someone who has been teaching movement for many years, I've come to question the validity of this approach. Why? Because breathing is a complex and multidimensional process that involves the entire torso, not just the belly.

Our torso is like a container, housing our organs and systems. Breathing involves expansion and contraction in various directions, both vertically and horizontally. When we inhale, our diaphragm moves downward, exerting pressure on our pelvic floor. As we exhale, the diaphragm rises, releasing pressure. This intricate dance of movement ensures our body's equilibrium.

Imagine your body as a tube filled with organs. To breathe effectively, this tube must expand and contract in all dimensions. Focusing solely on belly breathing overlooks the lateral and posterior aspects of breathing. Your lungs are located in the upper part of your torso, and when you breathe, you want your lungs to inflate and deflate fully. This means feeling your ribs expand laterally and slightly from front to back. The entire ribcage is part of the equation, not just the belly.

Some fitness approaches advocate exclusively for belly breathing, while others encourage abdominal bracing and immobility. Both extremes have their downsides. Instead, I believe in finding a balanced middle ground. A holistic approach involves allowing your belly to soften and accept the changes in pressure as you inhale and exhale. Your ribcage should expand laterally like a bellows, and there should be a subtle movement between your shoulder blades in the back.

The benefits of a comprehensive breathing technique are substantial. Not only does it engage all areas of your torso, but it can also regulate your nervous system, promoting relaxation. On the other hand, if you focus solely on belly breathing, you might find yourself elevating your shoulders to compensate for the lack of movement in other areas. This can lead to neck discomfort and even pain.

So, is belly breathing practical? The answer isn't black and white. Instead, think of your body as a three-dimensional container. Embrace the expansion and contraction of your ribcage, allowing air to flow freely. If you struggle with belly breathing, that's okay! It's not the only way to breathe effectively.

I've got you covered if you're looking for guidance on breathing techniques. Check out my YouTube channel for a video on breathing exercises, including my favorite H-A HA breathing technique. And remember, finding a balance between various breathing methods can contribute to a healthier, more mindful you.

That's a wrap for today's exploration of breathing techniques. Until next time, take care and breathe easy!