Practicing Mindful Breathing:

Breath is an underrated practice — mainly because we breathe with little effort. Did you know breathing is the only function in the body that is both involuntary and voluntary? This means we can choose how to breathe or let our lungs do their thing. Most of the time it’s important to let the lungs take over, but in some cases, a mindful breath will soothe the body and mind. My aim for this blog is to encourage the voluntary practice of breathing. I hope to illustrate its benefits in your life. 

Joseph Pilates is the best example of how a breath practice is life-changing.  Mr. Pilates suffered from asthma as a child and made a strict effort to go outside into the fresh air and breathe. Pilates breath is three-dimensional. The idea is the lungs fill — front to back and side to side. Mr. Pilates used his breath to help soothe his asthma. Today, instructors cue three-dimensional breath to facilitate ab engagement. The premise of the Pilates method is working the body from the inside out. This beautiful philosophy demonstrates that healing and well-being come from within.

Let’s Put It Into Practice:

Find yourself either seated or standing with the spine erect.

Take a deep inhale and notice your sides and chest get bigger. Keep taking an inhale for as long as you can.

Exhale and match the length of your inhale. Notice how the release of air tightens your core.

It is simple, but now you are mindfully breathing! If you are interested in making this a meditative practice, continue for one minute. Lengthen each breath as you progress.

Effects of Mindful Breathing:

  • Reduces stress
  • Oxygenation to muscles 
  • Encourages energy
  • Strengthens lungs
  • Brings clarity to the mind

To learn more about mindful breathing, check out Just Breathe, It’s Only Pilates (https://equipoisellc.com/just-breathe-its-only-pilates/) by me. Plus, visit me in the studio to progress your mindful breathing and dive into your Pilates routine!

By: Annie Maxwell