Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing

Deep diaphragmatic breathing is when we breathe into our belly causing contraction of the diaphragm muscle, as opposed to shallow chest breathing.

Diaphragmatic breathing has a myriad of positive affects on many different systems in the body.

For example, Stimulation of the diaphragm actually increases venous return to the heart. Increasing parasympathetic nervous activity and vagal tone. Helping to calm the body and create a sense of relaxation.

Physiologically it has been proven to help manage

-Chronic pain
-Insomnia
-Anxiety
-Depression
-Hot flushes
-Digestive issues
-Oxidative stress
-Hypertension
-Asthma

Belly Breathing also helps push lymph around our body, acting as a beneficial way to do self lymphatic drainage!

Unlike the vascular system the lymphatic system has no automatic pump moving it.

This type of breathing causes our lungs and diaphragm to press onto the thoracic duct. This pump like effect increases the processing of fluid from the thoracic duct, pushing it back into our blood stream.

The thoracic duct is the largest lymph vessel in the body, responsible for movement of 75% of the bodies lymph (fluid circulating in the lymphatic system). Lymph removes and processes toxins maintaining a healthy immune system!

It’s a fantastic tool to incorporate into your day for even just 10-15 mins once or twice a day.

Thanks for reading,

Helena