"I do not claim to have discovered any new method of breathing, but to understand the only true one - Natures." F M Alexander
A natural breath is full, rhythmic and silent. Most of us know that we do not breathe very well.
From the very first breath air pressure is more or less constant inside the lungs. Muscular pressure, or the lack of it, permits air to move freely in and out of the lungs and body. During an exhalation, the size of the chest walls (front, back and sides) are reduced by exerting gentle muscular pressure. This decreases the amount of air in the lungs. To make the exhalation longer, the abdominal muscles will also come into play. This movement naturally exercises the abdominal muscles, helping to keep them toned.
As muscular pressure is released from the chest walls (front, back and sides) a partial vacuum is caused in the lungs and air automatically flows in. As the inhalation happens naturally, it is not necessary to suck air in through the nose or mouth, as is commonly done.
During all these contractions and expansions, the diaphragm, which is the floor of the chest cavity, plays its part moving upwards or downwards with the changes in the chest cavity.
Poor breathing habits often come from unconscious misuse of the body. For example, if you hunch over your computer for many hours a day, your torso and all that it contains, will be compressed. The free flow of air, blood, oxygen and digestive processes are reduced.
If you are trying to lift something heavy, play a tennis shot or solve a mental problem with a held breath, you are holding on to the very thing you need – a free flow of energy. If you hold excessive muscular tension in your upper chest and shoulders, you are restricting the flexibility of your ribcage and the ability of your lungs to expand.
Before normal breathing patterns can be re-established, it is essential that incorrect general mal-coordination is understood. Alexander Teachers are trained to make these assessments.
