How You Can Use Your Breath to Find a Helpful Amount of Stretch
When we think of stretching, we can often focus on the muscles themselves - how are we moving? Are we pausing in the stretch, or is it a dynamic stretch? Are we using our own hands, arms, legs, or something else (a wall, a doorway, a towel, a surface, etc.) to help us in the stretch? How far are we coming into the stretch? What does it feel like? Are we finding a sense of stretching but without crossing into pain or any worsening symptoms?
Our breath can actually help with some of these questions.
Calm, smooth, easy, sufficient breathing can work for us and our stretching in several ways:
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Smooth, calm, regular breathing can help us access the part of our nervous system that is more tuned in with rest and digest functions instead of fight or flight.
- This can help us stretch in a state that is more relaxed than stressed, and that can help us physically relax into the stretch more.
- Steady breathing supports healthy blood flow and getting oxygen to the tissues we're working with.
- Our breath can be a good indicator if we're pushing too hard or stretching just enough.
We've probably all been in situations where our breath gets choppy or we might even hold our breath without meaning to if we're overdoing it as we're stretching our muscles.
Being able to breathe easily, regularly, and comfortably while we're stretching can be one indicator that we are stretching in an effective and comfortable range for us, while choppy or held breath could be an indicator that we are pushing ourselves too far and might need to ease up or take a rest.
The next time you're stretching, ask yourself what you notice about your breathing. Breath is an important support for stretching, movement, and rest.
If you'd like to discover how breath can support your spinal health and mobility, book a Stretch Therapy or Chiropractic appointment with us. Together, we can find how your breath works best for you.
