How Gentle Twisting Movements can lead to an Increase in Lung Capacity
Dear Readers,
I’m often asked what kind of stretching exercises can be done to increase lung capacity. I actually find that stretching does very little to increase lung capacity over the long run. Some of you may disagree with this but when we passively stretch our muscles, the brain invokes a protection reaction. This causes the muscle(s) being stretched to contract against the pulling so they won’t be over stretched, which could lead to injury of the muscle, ligament and in some cases a joint. Some people enjoy stretching and that’s fine just as long as the movements are done slowly and with awareness.
I have found that a better and safer way to free up the back, chest and ribs is by using gentle twisting and bending movements often found in Feldenkrais® Awareness Through Movement® lessons. After having done DMS lesson 2 for example, workshop participants often report the feeling of more lung capacity and easier breathing.
How does this work? When you twist, that means to turn to look to one side for example; some of the muscles between your ribs as well as along your chest and back need to lengthen in order for the ribs and spine to be able to move. Other muscles must contract to provide the necessary movement. Your brain sends signals coordinating the action of the muscles. If you stretch the muscles too much, the brain sends out signals to protect them. Of course what really goes on is much more complex than what’s being described here.
Gentle, explorative turning and twisting movements provide the nervous system with a chance to better coordinate the muscles and their movements. This leads to an increase in function and ability. Not only will breathing become easier, but also turning or bending, even balance will improve.
The best way to understand this is to experience it for yourself. The latest pod cast, “Gentle Twisting to increase Lung Capacity” is a lesson on this theme.
Thanks for reading, John Tarr
Be sure to check out the DMS podcasts, Feldenkrais® mini lessons for musicians and speakers.
If you have any specific questions or comments on The Feldenkrais Method® breathing and posture, send me an e-mail and I’ll try to respond in a future blog. Until then, breathe, sit, and stand well!
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