Breath is now widely understood to have a calming affect on the body and mind. It is used to induce relaxation and destress, which we all need especially in these turbulent times. It helps to improve focus and concentration and rebalances the central nervous system.
Those of us who practice Pilates know the incredible benefits that are gained physically. A strong core along with improved flexibility & mobility. Improved posture, better muscle tone, pain relief and so much more. Sometimes the importance and the benefits of the breath in Pilates can be overlooked. Many times people have told me they felt completely different after a Pilates class, mentally recharged and calmer then before class and are surprised to feel that the breathing has brought on this feeling.
For newcomers the breath can be one of the hardest things to accomplish in a class. It can be off putting as people think they are not doing it right and are breathing in when they should be breathing out & vice versa. My advice to any one who is starting their Pilates journey is... don't worry about it for the moment. Just breath!! It all falls into place with time.
"Breathing is the first act of life and the last. Our very life depends on it" Joseph Pilates. Breathing in Pilates is one of the main principles but the technique takes time and practice.
Holding the breath is never a good idea. It can lead to a feeling of dizziness and sickness. Not nice!
So why do we need to breath in a particular way in Pilates?
Joseph Pilates theory on 3D breath, where you breath into the back and sides of the ribcage, allows you to fill up the lungs deeply with oxygen which helps to improve lung capacity and has many physiological benefits on the body. Also the reason for this type of breathing is to fill up the ribcage and lungs so that the ribs move laterally (out to the sides) so that the abdominal wall to stays engaged while you move. The transverse abdominals, which is a large deep core muscle & the pelvic floor another deep core muscle which spreads across the base of the pelvis, play a very important role in stabilizing the body when in movement. Once these muscles are activated, we stabilize our body. How are they activated?...By exhaling and conscious control!
Thanks to Zoom and mute the audible exhale may not be noticed by many. Some people choose to make that audible sound and some choose a quieter exhale. Personally for me I find that hearing my own breathing helps me to stay focused on my movement. So even though some instructors may encourage the loud noticeable exhale and even though I use a loud exhale myself it really is up to the individual. I always come back to that piece of advice I always give my clients about breath and that is..."just breathe"!
The correct technique comes patience but once you master that technique your movement will be more controlled and precise. You will feel energized and focused yet calm. You will feel stronger in your movement and this carry's over to every day life.
Do you take time each day to focus on your breathing?
