Breathe In, Breathe Out!

Posted: January 12th, 2015

Massage has many benefits, but did you know it can even help with breathing issues? I really had no idea. As a person who suffers from asthma, I think this might be something to try. Massage therapy has so many benefits for the whole body both physically and mentally. It's an excellent form of relaxation and stress relief. Now we can also add its benefits to lung health.   Not many people would think the lungs and respiratory system would benefit from massage therapy. But to their surprise, massage therapy, when performed by a skilled practitioner, can bring very helpful results to the lungs and breathing more efficiently. To have a great benefit on the respiratory system, the muscles around your torso, including the diaphragm (your main respiratory muscle) and intercostals muscles (between the ribs) must be massaged. Mind you, you should only let a trained professional work on you. 

Benefits of regular massage on the lungs and breathing

  Massage therapy not only improves breathing, but also posture. This leads to opening the chest area, and alignment of rib cage expansion needed for optimal lung function.   Massage plays an important role in training the body how to relax and help improve breathing. Respiratory issues, such as allergies, sinus problems, asthma and bronchitis, are one group of conditions that can benefit from massage therapy.   Massage therapy impacts the respiratory system by increasing your pulmonary functions. The loosening of the often tight respiratory muscles allows them to move more freely which will in turn aid yourbreathingby allowing the lungs to expand and contract with ease.   Many muscles in the front and back of the upper body are accessory respiratory muscles. When any of these muscles are chronically tight and shortened, they can restrict normal breathing and disrupt breathing patterns. Massage techniques to lengthen and relax these muscles improve breathing capacity and function.   Anxiety and stress cause restricted breathing. One cannot reach a relaxed state while taking short shallow breaths. The chest becomes tight and constricting air. Massage is important to train the body how to relax and help improve breathing. This will help those who suffer from chronic breathing ailments.