Breathwork – Personal Growth

When I work on my clients, one of the first things I check is how they breathe, as this has a huge effect on the healing process. It is said that a whopping 95% of the population don’t breathe correctly. Most people tend to breathe shallowly into their chest instead of into the abdomen. However when we are little and life hasn’t yet got in the way, we breathe into the belly. All you have to do is look at a baby, when they are relaxed their abdomens rise and fall, and when they are upset the chest is where the action is.

Breath work has gained a lot of attention in recent years for its numerous health benefits, especially in activating the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, running from the brainstem to the abdomen and responsible for regulating the parasympathetic nervous system. This system is often referred to as the “rest and digest” system, as it helps the body relax and heal. 

On the other hand, the sympathetic nervous system is often referred to as the “fight or flight” system, which activates during times of stress or danger. When the sympathetic nervous system is overactive, it can lead to chronic stress, inflammation, and various health issues. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for preparing the body for perceived threats or stressors. When activated, it triggers a series of physiological responses that help the body respond to a stressful situation. These responses include an increase in heart rate, dilation of the airways to allow for more oxygen to enter the lungs, and the release of adrenaline to provide a burst of energy. Other effects of the sympathetic nervous system activation include the dilation of pupils, increased blood flow to muscles, and decreased activity in the digestive system. Have you noticed that if your feeling wound up over any length of time, your digestion will suffer.

Breathwork can help activate the vagus nerve, thereby shifting the body from a state of stress (dominated by the sympathetic nervous system) to a state of relaxation (dominated by the parasympathetic nervous system). 

The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for promoting relaxation and conserving energy. When activated, it helps to slow heart rate, constrict airways, and stimulate digestion. This branch of the autonomic nervous system also helps to promote a state of rest and repair, allowing the body to conserve energy and repair tissues.

Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems work together to maintain homeostasis in the body. This can lead to a wide range of health benefits, including reduced stress levels, improved digestion, better immune function, and enhanced overall well-being.

One of the main benefits of breathwork in activating the vagus nerve is its ability to promote mindfulness and presence. By focusing on the breath and practicing deep breathing techniques, individuals can bring their attention to the present moment, calming their mind and reducing anxiety and stress.

Furthermore, breathwork can also improve respiratory function and oxygenation of the body, which can have a direct impact on overall health. Proper breathing techniques can help increase lung capacity, improve circulation, and aid in detoxification processes within the body.

In addition, breathwork can help to release tension and emotion stored in the body, allowing for a greater sense of relaxation and emotional well-being. This can be especially beneficial for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma. Both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems work together to maintain homeostasis in the body. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems play crucial roles in regulating the body’s physiological responses to stress and relaxation, helping to maintain overall health and well-being.

Incorporating breath work into your daily routine can have a profound impact on activating the vagus nerve and promoting overall health and well-being. By balancing the autonomic nervous system and promoting relaxation, breathwork can help facilitate healing in the body and mind.

The perfect breath, is in through the nose and out through the mouth. 51/2 second in 51/2 seconds out. When we we want  to calm the body, make the exhale longer than the inhale. The mouth is for talking and eating! the nose is for breathing and filtering!