Breathing plays a critical role in movement and posture, largely through its impact on the position and function of the ribcage. Here's how this relationship works:
Ribcage Position and Diaphragmatic Breathing: The ribcage is a key structure in the body, providing a protective cage for vital organs and playing a vital role in breathing mechanics. Proper diaphragmatic breathing – where the diaphragm moves downwards during inhalation, causing the abdomen to expand – helps maintain an optimal position of the ribcage (canister position in image above). This is in contrast to shallow, chest-based breathing which can lead to a lifted or flared ribcage position (scissor position in image above).
Core Stability and Spinal Alignment: The way we breathe affects our core stability. Diaphragmatic breathing engages the deep core muscles, including the transversus abdominis and pelvic floor muscles. This engagement is crucial for maintaining spinal alignment and stability. A stable spine supported by a well-positioned ribcage allows for more efficient and safer movement patterns.
Movement Efficiency and Muscle Balance: Proper ribcage alignment, facilitated by effective breathing, ensures that the muscles around the trunk and spine work in a balanced way. It prevents overuse of certain muscles (like the neck and upper shoulders) and underuse of others (like the diaphragm and deep abdominals). This balance is essential for movement efficiency and can reduce the risk of injury.
Oxygenation and Endurance: Efficient breathing maximizes oxygen intake and carbon dioxide expulsion, which is fundamental for muscle function and endurance. Better oxygenation means muscles can work more effectively and for longer periods, improving overall movement quality.
Relaxation and Recovery: Proper breathing techniques also aid in relaxation and can facilitate faster recovery after physical activity. Deep, diaphragmatic breathing helps in calming the nervous system, reducing muscle tension, and promoting recovery.
The proper position of the ribcage, achieved through effective breathing techniques, is crucial for maintaining core stability, ensuring muscle balance, enhancing movement efficiency, optimizing oxygenation, and aiding in relaxation and recovery. This highlights the interconnectedness of breathing with overall movement quality and physical health.
Here is a video to help you understand how breathing helps movement.
Here is a video to help you work on your breathing mechanics to help you move better.
Now go take a deep breath!
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