Breathing
In, out, in, out: The Rhythm of Breath
Welcome to our exploration of something we do effortlessly, without a second thought, yet carries profound implications for our well-being: breathing.
On average, we repeat this rhythm around 20,000 times a day. But have you ever paused to consider the impact of our breathing patterns on our health?How often have you been advised to "just breathe"? It sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? But in reality, it’s often harder to execute than it seems, especially for those with conditions like sleep apnea or Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS), where breathing patterns can be disrupted.
Did you know that approximately 1 in 10 people suffer from a breathing pattern disorder or chronic overbreathing? The consequences extend far beyond just the act of breathing itself.
Improper breathing can manifest in various symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, and anxiety. If left unaddressed, chronic breathing issues can lead to fatigue, weakness, poor sleep quality, muscle pain, chest discomfort, and a decrease in pain tolerance.What's fascinating is that our breathing directly influences our nervous system. When we breathe rapidly and shallowly, we activate the body's "fight or flight" response, preparing us to deal with imminent danger—like running from a lion. Conversely, slow, deep breathing prompts the body to enter the "rest and digest" mode, ideal for relaxation and sleep.
Moreover, improper breathing can lead to weakness in the diaphragm—the primary muscle responsible for breathing. This weakness has been associated with chronic low back and neck pain, among other issues.The good news is that we can alter our breathing patterns by addressing the factors that interfere with proper breathing. Techniques such as nasal release and utilizing tools like the Powerbreathe K5 can help strengthen the diaphragm and improve overall breathing function.
So if you have been struggling with the symptoms above, book an assessment today to start breathing better today.