Breathing is a crucial part of our bodies overall function, and it does not only affect our respiratory system.

Here are a few ways how diaphragmatic breathing can be beneficial to other bodily systems.

RESPIRATORY

Of course breathing affects its main apparatus, the respiratory system. Our lungs contain approx 2,400km’s of airways and approx 500 million air sacs (alveoli) - when we breathe deeply our gas exchange of O2 IN and CO2 OUT is highly effective.

MUSCULAR

The diaphragm is our chief muscle of inspiration, which separates the lungs and abdominal cavity. When we INHALE, there is a contraction of the diaphragm to allow more air to enter the lungs. When we exhale there is a relaxation of the diaphragm to push air out of the lungs.

Breathing can also be active or passive.

NERVOUS SYSTEM

Breathing can either increase sympathetic dominance, which will increase heart rate, or it can increase the parasympathetic nervous system, which will decrease heart rate.

Extended inhales - excite the nervous system (sympathetic)

Extended exhales - calm the nervous system (parasympathetic)

DIGESTIVE

If we are breathing fast and shallow we are also putting ourselves into the sympathetic dominance state, which will physiologically divert blood flow away from the digestive tract and into the muscular system to activate “fight, flight or freeze”. Thus, decreasing digestive activation.

When we breathe deeply and calming, the body activates a “Rest & Digest” parasympathetic state which diverts blood away from those muscles back to the digestive tract. Thus, increasing digestive activation.

LYMPHATIC

Belly breathing allows for a greater intake of oxygen, leading to improved oxygenation of our body's tissues and organs. This increased oxygen supply aids in cellular regeneration, boosts energy levels, and supports the body's natural detoxification processes.

SKELETAL

Belly breathing encourages the activation of the deep core muscles, including the diaphragm, which helps stabilize the spine and maintain a healthy posture. Rounded shoulders, or poor posture, has a huge impact on breathing mechanics.

*The Conscious Chiropractor*
*FHP - Forward Head Posture*

By incorporating diaphragmatic breathing into our daily routine, we can improve our digestion and lymph drainage, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal imbalances, and promote a strong, aligned spine.

I highly encourage you to prioritise this simple yet powerful practice and experience the transformative effects it can have on your overall health and vitality.

Mads x

How Does Breathing Affect Other Bodily Systems?

What is Chiropractic?

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