Why breathing is so important in Pilates?

Breathing is one of the cores of Pilates method, and it is a very important part of any physical activity. But, how does learning deep breathing techniques can benefit me?

It can benefit you in so many incredible ways. To give you an idea, what happens when you cut off your breath? Breathing is everything. It is not just an automatic function of the body, it is what makes life start, it is a inner shower of oxygen that cleanses your body, calms your mind and rejuvenates your spirit.

Master Joseph Pilates said in Return to Life Through Contrology that lazy breathing turned lungs into cemeteries of dying and dead germs, as well as the ideal haven for their massive multiplication. So you can get the picture, right?

On the other hand, active deep breathing can make you gain these benefits:

• Oxygenates the blood and nourishes the body on a cellular level.
• Removes toxins from the body.
• Improves circulation.
• Improves skin tone.
• Calms the mind and the body.
• Boosts concentration.
• Provides a rhythm for movement.
• Assists in activating target muscles.

Finally, to enjoy the benefits abovementioned you have to learn to use the muscles involved in this process which are the diaphragm, the abdominals and the intercostals (sets of muscles that criss-cross and are located in between the ribs).

Source: VC Reporter