6 Tips to better cue the breath

 THE BREATH AS AUTONOMIC AND CONSCIOUS PROCESS

The autonomic nervous system regulates breathing patterns based on the body's needs, such as oxygen demand and carbon dioxide levels. However, conscious control of breathing can also be exercised, allowing us to override or influence the automatic process, for example, through deep breathing exercises, pranayama, or mindfulness practices.

The delicate interplay between the autonomic and conscious control of breathing is what makes it a complex subject. However, it is also what makes it so powerful and beneficial for our physical and mental well-being. By utilizing conscious control, we can have a positive impact on the autonomic processes, helping to regulate breathing patterns, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall health and well-being.

IT IS A TOOL

Breathing is a delicate and intricate process, shaped by both our conscious control and our autonomic nervous system. By having conscious control over our breathing, we are able to harness its power to bring about calmness, increase alertness, and optimize movement.

In trauma work, it is important to remember that a client's breathing pattern, no matter how dysregulated it may appear, is never random. There is a purpose and intention behind every breath a person takes, even if it may seem inefficient or disrupted. The autonomic nervous system is constantly adapting and responding to internal and external changes, ensuring homeostasis and survival.

As practitioners, it is our job to help clients understand the interplay between their conscious control and autonomic processes, and how they can use their breath to bring about positive change. By recognizing the purpose behind a client's breathing pattern, we can help them to understand and heal the underlying causes, leading to greater physical and emotional well-being.

Here are my six top tips for how to work with the breath in Pilates classes: 

1. JUST ALLOW

It's important to remember that there is no failure when it comes to breathing patterns. If a client is unable to access the desired breathing pattern, it may be due to their nervous system's resistance. This is not a failure on their part, but simply the body's way of protecting itself. As a practitioner, it's crucial to communicate this to the client and emphasize that over time, with patience and persistence, their body may change its mind and allow the desired breathing pattern. Encourage the client to keep exploring and practicing in a gentle and respectful way.

2. GET A BASELINE

It's important to observe the client's breathing pattern before making any interventions. Their natural breathing pattern can provide valuable information about their body and its needs. Instead of rushing to change it, we can learn from it and use it to guide our approach. It's also important to consider that other cues like a calming voice or body awareness can regulate breathing without direct intervention. Let's allow the body to lead the way in our work with breathing. 

3. USE INVITATIONAL LANGUAGE

By using invitational language, the client is empowered to make choices about their breathing. This approach creates a sense of safety, reduces resistance and encourages exploration. It allows the client to connect with their breath in a more personal and meaningful way.

Breathing is a finely tuned process that is both autonomic and under conscious control. As practitioners, it is important to approach it respectfully and use invitational language to put the client in charge of their breath. Observing the client's breathing pattern and using other cues can also bring about positive change. Ultimately, the goal is to create a sense of safety, reduce resistance, and empower the client to explore their breath.

4. PERSONALIZE THE CUE

Respond to the individual's unique breathing pattern and use language that is invitational and empowering, rather than prescribing specific cues. Each person's breathing is different, so it is important to observe and respond to their unique pattern, rather than applying generic, popular cues that may not be helpful. Encourage them to explore and be present with their breath, and reassure them that their natural breathing is not wrong and that they can return to it at any time. 

5. CHANGE BREATHING SEQUENCES

It's important to respect each individual's comfort level and not force them to do something that they may not feel ready for. In group classes, it is important to provide different options for breathing exercises and allow people to choose what works for them. This way, they can explore and discover what feels good for their own bodies, and not be limited by generic, one-size-fits-all breathing cues. Respect for personal boundaries and comfort level is key in creating a safe and supportive learning environment for everyone. 

6. GIVE TIME TO INTEGRATE

Allow the client time to process the experience, to understand what it feels like to them and to reflect on the impact it has had on their movement, their emotions, and their general state of being. Encourage them to continue to play with it on their own time, to allow the experience to settle, and to become more familiar with this new way of breathing. Remember to always prioritize the client's comfort and safety and never push them beyond their limits.