The Art of Manliness #323: Improve Your Breathing, Improve Your Health
Jul 20, 2017
Belisa Vranich, a clinical psychologist and author of 'Breathe,' specializes in retraining individuals on the art of proper breathing. In this enlightening discussion, she highlights the profound effects of poor breathing on stress, sleep, and overall health. Belisa shares practical exercises to improve diaphragmatic breathing, revealing its connection to digestion and pelvic floor health. Listeners learn how mindful breathing not only enhances physical performance but can also transform mental well-being, making breathing an essential tool for a healthier life.
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Vertical vs Horizontal Breathing
- Most adults breathe incorrectly by using a vertical breath, raising their shoulders, which is inefficient.
- Proper breathing should be horizontal, expanding the rib cage outward, engaging the diaphragm.
Poor Breathing Triggers Stress
- Poor breathing leaves the body in high alert by activating the sympathetic nervous system.
- This stress response disrupts sleep, raises cortisol, and exhausts the body over time.
Why Adults Breathe Poorly
- Children breathe correctly until about age 5 to 10 when sitting increases, posture worsens, and belly gripping begins.
- These changes shift breathing from diaphragm-driven horizontal to inefficient vertical chest breathing.
