Power in The Rhythmic Breath

The breath is capable of enabling alignment, strength and a more balanced nervous system. We so rarely engage it in its fullest capacity when we disconnect from feeling our own body. This misunderstanding of our kinesthetic ability is significantly short-changing our health.

Rhythmic breathing is the even pacing of the inhale and exhale. It’s an effective way for us to use our breathing muscles closer to their potential so we reap all the inherent benefits. An exception to breathing in this way is when we are at higher levels of exertion and need a more forceful breath to expel the fast buildup of waste products. But most of the time, we can slow the breath down and benefit from its power.

Our diaphragm muscle and our core muscles operate like a bellows when we are seeking stability. When the diaphragm contracts, it descends an inch or so from its parachute to take some space from the upper core. When it relaxes, the upper core engages to replace the space taken by the diaphragm. The lower core muscles, which include the pelvic floor, remain engaged when we are in movement. At least, this is what we hope for a healthy body.

The stabilizing aspect of the breath comes from the internal pressure that builds as the diaphragm draws air in. In this way it helps to brace the spine. As that pressure decreases with the relaxation of the diaphragm, the action of the core more fully engages upward. So often the exhale is short which disengages this stability rapidly. Couple this with core weakness and we hardly have anything left to help brace the torso. The strength that comes with rhythmic breathing can be instrumental in resolving these issues of weakness.

Start by setting aside some time to practice feeling your breathing movement. This foundation will help you adopt a pattern that you can engage more frequently in the moment. Lie with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. You can use a 5 pound bag of rice on the ribs to give the body input to respond to. Pace your inhale and exhale the same and simply notice the even rise and fall of the breath cycle. Take this awareness into a simple activity such as walking and make it a meditative practice so you begin to notice the power and calm that comes from this simple action. It’s so often these small acts engaged with commitment that bring about the most profound transformation!