Just Breathe!
Being mindful of your breath.
LISA ANDERSON
Founder Cycleward Studio
6161 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
954-616-8049
Just Breathe…it’s instinctive right? Well, of course, but not quite the same during exercise. At least not if you want to do it effectively and safely. Proper breathing technique, whether you’re running, swimming, cycling, strength training, or holding your warrior, will help make your workout more smooth and efficient. When I was a little girl, I remember being at my older brother’s track meet, as he was flying past the bleachers I could hear him panting out “Sa… Sa… Sa.” I was fascinated. When we got home I immediately asked him what that was all about. He replied, “that’s my exhalation, where I get my speed, my strength, my power.” Proper breathing can help athletes exercise longer (endurance) with less effort, prevent side stitches and hernias, and even calm the mind. Diaphragmatic breathing, or deep (complete) breathing — inhaling through your nose exhaling out of your mouth — is the most important technique to use during exercise. It allows a complete flow of oxygen to your body, permitting it to function properly. It is important to be mindful of your posture and form during workouts, being sure to stand up straight and position yourself to breathe from the diaphragm. Breathe in and out evenly and deeply, finding a rhythm, allowing your mind and body to sync. Complete breathing provides the body with a superior state of calm and relaxation, lowering heart rate, cortisol levels and blood pressure. So even when you’re not exercising this style of breathing is helpful to control anxiety and stress. As one of my best friends, Paige Held (owner of Yoga Joint) said during a yoga class: “Deep Ujjayi (deep breathing in yoga terms) calms the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which is the CEO of your body. A CEO of any company needs to be strong, powerful, and focused to serve its purpose.” Check out Cycleward Studio in Fort Lauderdale to utilize these techniques in our cycling or sculpt room. www.cyclewardstudio.com
