September is Pain Awareness Month, and boy, are we excited to share with everyone a breathing technique that we believe can help a lot of folks struggling with chronic pain and the underlying causes.
Chronic pain can be a profoundly debilitating ordeal for many people, with various conditions, disorders, and diseases causing sensations of constant pain in those afflicted. Nearly 100 Million people in the United States experience chronic pain, with most cases resulting from diabetes, heart disease, and/or cancer.
To help spread awareness of chronic pain and its effects on those dealing with it, we’ll be showcasing a useful breathing technique designed to aid the body by ushering it into a soothing and sedated state. If you suffer from chronic pain and might be looking for an additional tool to use as a source of relief, this may be a great starting point.
Read on!
The Muscle Relaxer Breath
The technique in question for today's blog is the Muscle relaxer technique. This exercise is a valuable breathing process designed to sedate the body through an extended humming exhale that stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. This stimulation results in a tranquilizing effect on the body, allowing for a profound state of relaxation and relief.
This technique is best practiced before bed, giving the mind and body a valuable transition to a relaxed state that encourages a restful, and relieving, sleep. If you feel tense from a long day, this can also be an ideal exercise to practice when winding down at home.
The Science of Muscle Relaxer
The process of the Muscle Relaxer technique is principally based on the inclusion of a humming exhale. This detail in the method increases Nitric Oxide production in the body by as much as 15%. Nitric Oxide is a useful vasodilator molecule whose effects are measurably felt on every organ in the body.
The Muscle Relaxer exercise itself has been practiced for centuries as a classic yogi technique – with its effects being used by teachers in demonstrations of profound calm. However, the exact science of how it works as a management tool has been unknown until now.
How it Works
Begin by sitting comfortably in a spot with your shoulders relaxed and your hands on your knees or thighs:
- Breathing through your nose, inhale for 5 seconds.
- Now exhale through your nose for 15 seconds, hum audibly as you exhale.
- Repeat this cycle for 1 minute, or until the sensation of tension or stress begins dissipating.
For a potentially improved experience, try accentuating the resonance of your humming by bringing your psalm to your ears. However, we recommend only doing this in a quiet place where you aren’t likely to be disturbed.
For more information regarding how to manage your breathing for a more effective lifestyle, visit our other blogs here at The Exhale to get the latest tips and tricks. For free guided breathing exercises that you can take anywhere, try out the Breathwrk app here and enjoy a FREE 7-day trial with access to everything we have to offer!
And remember: Breathe Better, Live Better.
Ciao!
