Effects on Health
Breathing is a fundamental part of life. However, the quality of breathing can have a profound impact on both physical and mental health. At this point, physiotherapy aims to improve individuals’ overall health by using breathing exercises as a supportive tool.
Basic Benefits of Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises reduce stress and help relax muscles while increasing oxygen circulation in the body. With proper breathing techniques, the diaphragm can work more effectively. This particularly reduces unnecessary tension in the chest and shoulder areas and contributes to improving posture.
The Connection Between Physiotherapy and Breathing Exercises
Physiotherapy treatments often include breathing exercises as part of rehabilitation programs. Particularly in cases of back, neck, and lower back pain, techniques that activate the diaphragm not only alleviate pain but also provide better support for muscles. Additionally, breathing exercises help increase lung capacity and strengthen respiratory muscles in individuals with respiratory system disorders.
The Relationship Between Posture and Breathing
Incorrect posture can negatively affect breathing. A forward-leaning posture limits the lung’s capacity to expand and restricts the movement of the diaphragm. Physiotherapy recommends exercises to correct posture, integrating breathing exercises into these programs. In this way, both posture and breathing quality can be improved together.
Simple Breathing Exercises That Can Be Applied in Daily Life
- Diaphragmatic Breathing (Abdominal Breathing): Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen, then take a deep breath. Watch your abdomen expand, then slowly exhale.
- 4-7-8 Technique: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly for 8 seconds. This technique can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Conclusion
Breathing exercises are not only an effective method for stress management, but also for alleviating physical discomfort and supporting overall body health. Physiotherapists can tailor these exercises to the individual’s needs and incorporate them into treatment processes, thereby improving the person’s quality of life.
Regular breathing exercises are a simple yet powerful tool to achieve both physical and mental balance.
Yunus Emre Sarıoğlu
