By Lisa Lawston
NYC personal trainer

The outmoded practice of doctors slapping babies on the rear came to be, in order to inspire babies first deep breath, and for most of us it was also the last deep breath that would summon the attention of our surrounding world unless we were locked in the
Heimlich Maneuver. From childhood into adulthood, the focus of the breath was to
freshen it with a mint. The words “deep and shallow” were applied to personality
types, and not modes of oxygenating our cells. Cells must be oxygenated in order
for them to fill with energy and energy is the stuff that animates our bodies
and lives.

Shallow breathing is done in the chest. Shallow breathing doesn’t oxygenate the cells effectively and will result in fatigue. Shallow breathing can put you at risk for high blood
pressure, dizziness and internal damage. The only thing worse than shallow breathing is holding your breath; unless of course, you’re underwater and then shallow breathing would be less desirable.

Deep breathing is diaphragmatic breathing and the positive physiological affects that it has on our bodies and minds places oxygen in the category of the latest and greatest superfood! If it was packaged as a detoxifier it would be sold out! Deep breathing facilitates the expansion and contraction of the diaphragm, which activates the Lymphatic System to expel toxins from the body. The efficiency of the Lymphatic System to eliminate toxins depends on deep breathing and physical movement because the Lymphatic System doesn’t have it’s own pump. The habit of breathing deeply will also reduce stress, aid insomnia and prevent depression.

There is a physiological affect on the nervous system when breathing deeply that reduces the production of stress related hormones like cortisol. Breathing deeply also has a positive affect on lowering blood pressure. Did I mention it’s anti-aging? Liking that oxygen, aren’t you? Good. Now let’s look at how to breathe through your exercise program step by step.

When performing resistance training, inhale and oxygenate your cells during the part of the movement that is easiest. For example, if you’re doing a crunch the easier part of the exercise is before you raise your shoulders off the mat. Exhale on the more difficult part of the exercise, which is when you crunch up and are using the most force. You can’t flex and complete the movement if you’re not exhaling completely. Exhale! Get the most out of your exercise. Blow out the carbon dioxide!

When you do aerobic exercise your body is forced to take in more oxygen and exhale more carbon dioxide. Because of this, aerobic exercise facilitates weight loss, accelerates fat burning and assists with clarity in thinking. Breathing during aerobics should be deep and controlled. Breathing regulates our energy. Find your rhythm and pace yourself.

Breathe new life into your exercise routine, because oxygen is not just for babies anymore.