The Connection Between Breathing and Spinal Stabilization / Body In Motion

When we think about spinal health, our minds often jump to thoughts of strong back muscles and good posture. But did you know that the way you breathe plays a crucial role in stabilizing your spine?
At the heart of this discussion is the diaphragm, our primary muscle of inspiration. This dome-shaped muscle sits beneath our rib cage and flattens as we inhale, allowing air to fill our lungs. But its role doesn't end there. The diaphragm's movement creates pressure in our abdomen, which is met by the pelvic floor at the bottom and the transversus abdominis wrapping around our torso. Together, these structures form a canister-like system that provides robust support for our spine.
We can use the analogy of a can of pop to illustrate this point. When the can is intact, you can confidently stand on it without it crushing. However, if the can is dented or cracked, it loses its strength and stability. Similarly, faulty breathing patterns can lead to a compromised support system, leaving us vulnerable to pain and injury.
Many of us are guilty of not fully engaging our diaphragm or failing to properly expand our transversus abdominis. This often stems from habits developed during our desk-bound childhoods, leading to faulty respiration patterns that rob us of holistic stabilization. This can result in the overuse of other muscles to compensate for the lack of core stability, ultimately causing discomfort and potential injury.
So, what can we do to ensure our breathing patterns are supporting our spinal health? Awareness and proper technique. By learning to engage our diaphragm fully and maintain balanced tension in our core muscles, we can create a strong, stable foundation for our spine.