Awareness Through Movement #430

Wide open twist to side – SEESAW BREATHING

A technique unique to Feldenkrais is what is known as “see-saw” breathing.
It’s where the chest expands so that the ribs simultaneously lengthen and widen - engaging the intercostal muscles between each rib as simultaneously the stomach contracts. Drawing the lower abdominal muscles in contracts the pelvic diaphragm as well, so that the two internal trampoline-like organs contract and expand together… which as you might image, does wonders for all of the organs in between.

Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen explains the relationship between the two diaphragms in action:

In this (Vita and Asanga friendly) lesson we explore see-saw breathing in unusual twisty configurations using the ground (to ground us) and feel how this breathing can create even more efficient movement. In true Feldenkrais practice we first test each configuration in different ways, then actively breathe before repeating the same lengthening movements and then sense in to any differences the see-saw breathing made.

Other benefits of this technique:

”It improves lung capacity and oxygenation
which reduces tension in the chest, abdomen, and spine
by creating a rhythmic stretch…
which supports spinal mobility and reduces compression in the vertebrae.

See-saw breathing also stimulates the vagus nerve,
promoting parasympathetic activity,
which lowers heart rate,
reduces stress,

and improves digestion.”