Better Breathing, Better You

Really though. Have you guys ever stopped to notice how shallow you're breathing? Barely seems like you're breathing at all.

I bring this up because this is something I notice all the time. Either I'm not really breathing while I'm working or I'm working with clients and they aren't breathing with their exercises.

The breath is so powerful. You can use it to help control your form on lifts and different exercises and you can use it to try to regulate your nervous system to get yourself out of the flight or fight mode, like me when I get really flustered and overwhelmed.

Tip (that I've been coaching myself on): Whenever I'm trying to get a lot done all at once and I find myself feeling lost, I stop and take a deep breath. Maybe 3 or 4 if need be. Then I'm settled and ready to take on the next thing, whether it's a business task or a burpee.

Is there a certain way to breathe?

I'm glad you asked. The answer is an emphatic YES! A lot of times, if you ask someone to take a deep breath you see their shoulders come up to their ears and then drop when they breathe out or they'll suck in their stomach when they inhale. Let's correct that way of thinking right now. Try this little exercise:

1. Get yourself comfortable

2. Breathe in through your nose and try to fill your belly with air

3. Avoid the shoulders shrugging

4. Slowly release the air

You should see your stomach distend when you breathe in. If you're having trouble with this, put your hand on your belly so you can feel your hand moving with your breath.

Getting your breathing pattern right is so important. What's your favorite breathing tip or technique?

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