On December 1st we will explore this deep muscle, but what is the point of working this muscle?
The opening of the diaphragm is essential to optimize breathing , from an anatomical point of view, it is also the main muscle (did you know that it is not the lungs that initiate the respiratory movement, but the diaphragm which stretches them to let the air in?).
It separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a crucial role in breathing, stress management , posture and blood circulation .
The yoga approach allows us to work this area in depth and to benefit from all its benefits.
What about from a Yogic point of view?
Working the diaphragm is essential to harmonize the body, breath ( prana ) and mind , because it is located at the crossroads of several vital dimensions.
In summary, working the diaphragm from a yogic point of view is about cultivating conscious breathing, releasing energetic and emotional blockages, and strengthening the unity between body, energy and mind .
And from a global point of view, what are we improving:
There respiratory capacity : Better mobility of the diaphragm allows deeper breathing, which promotes better oxygenation of the blood and tissues.
Stress Management : The diaphragm is connected to the autonomic nervous system. By activating diaphragmatic breathing, the parasympathetic system is stimulated, thereby reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Posture and Core : The diaphragm works in synergy with the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor. Better opening improves core stability, reducing tension in the lower back and promoting a balanced posture.
Blood and lymphatic circulation : The movements of the diaphragm facilitate venous return and lymphatic drainage, thus supporting detoxification and overall circulation.
In short, working on opening the diaphragm with yoga, through postures and conscious breathing, has a global impact on physical and mental health, which is in any case what we will try to address during our three hours together.
And from an anatomical and functional point of view?
It can also have a direct and profound impact on digestion and the organs of the lower abdomen.
Mechanical stimulation of the digestive organs : The movement of the diaphragm during deep breathing acts as an internal massage. It stimulates the liver, stomach, pancreas, intestines, and even the kidneys, promoting their optimal functioning.
Improved intestinal peristalsis : Diaphragmatic breathing supports the natural movements of the intestines, which can help reduce constipation and promote better elimination.
Blood and lymphatic circulation : Improved diaphragm mobility increases circulation to the abdominal organs, helping with their oxygenation and detoxification. Drainage of toxins via the lymphatic system is also optimized.
Reduction of abdominal tension : Chronic tension in the diaphragm or abdominal muscles can compress the organs and disrupt their function. Working on opening releases this tension, promoting better space and relaxation of the organs.
Nervous System Harmonization : The diaphragm is connected to the vagus nerve, a key player in the parasympathetic system. Conscious breathing helps activate this system, which slows the heart rate and promotes digestive functions.
From an emotional point of view?
From an emotional and symbolic point of view, the diaphragm plays a central role as a receptacle and regulator of emotions.
Working this area in yoga can have a profound impact on the release and transformation of emotions.
The diaphragm is often thought of as an “emotional reservoir.”
Stress, fear, anxiety or sadness can cause tension in this area, because these emotions directly affect our breathing. Releasing the diaphragm allows us to release these often unconscious emotional blockages.
The emotional impact of breathing : Breathing is closely linked to emotional states. Short or blocked breathing often reflects disturbed emotions. By mobilizing the diaphragm through yoga or pranayama exercises, we act on these states to regain calm and clarity.
Emotional release through movement : Certain postures or exercises can cause waves of emotions, because by releasing the diaphragm, we can release deeply buried memories or tensions. This catharsis is essential to reconnect with ourselves and move forward with lightness.
Working the diaphragm then becomes an invitation to take a breath in every sense of the word : freeing oneself from emotional burdens, creating space to welcome what is, and finding inner balance.
And from a philosophical point of view then?
Working the diaphragm in yoga transcends the purely physical aspect to touch more subtle dimensions of being.
The connection between breath and life : In yoga, breath (prana) is considered the vital force that animates the body and mind. The diaphragm, as the central muscle of breathing, becomes a bridge between the physical and subtle energy. By freeing it, we promote a smooth circulation of vital energy.
Mind Control Through Breath : According to yogic texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, breath control (pranayama) is an essential way to calm the fluctuations of the mind (chitta vritti nirodha). By working the diaphragm, we refine breathing, which calms the mind and facilitates meditation.
Connection to the present : The breath is always in the present moment. By cultivating conscious breathing, via the diaphragm, we anchor the mind in the here and now, thus reinforcing full awareness.
Emotional release : The diaphragm is often associated with emotions such as fear, stress or anxiety, which can create tension there. By working this area, we open a space to release these emotions, allowing for inner purification (saucha).
Opening the Heart and Soul : Symbolically, the diaphragm is a bridge between the lower (instincts, survival) and the upper (spirituality, aspirations). By making it more flexible , we open the rib cage, the seat of the heart, promoting a connection to qualities such as love, compassion and acceptance.
And finally, from a symbolic point of view?
An inner boundary : The diaphragm separates the rib cage (associated with openness, the heart, aspirations) from the abdomen (linked to instincts, survival, visceral emotions). By working this boundary, we harmonize our primary needs with our higher aspirations, creating an emotional balance.
Space to breathe : Symbolically, a tense diaphragm can be perceived as a “lack of inner space”. Freeing it means regaining the ability to breathe fully, to welcome your emotions without repressing them, and to open yourself up to greater serenity.
Symbol of balance and unity : In yoga, the diaphragm represents a bridge between the lower dimensions of the body (grounding, survival) and the higher dimensions (spirit, elevation). Working it means balancing these forces, thus aligning the physical body, subtle energies and consciousness.
Connection with prana and subtle breath : The diaphragm regulates the breath, considered in yoga as the vehicle of prana (vital energy). Conscious and fluid breathing, facilitated by a flexible diaphragm, optimizes the circulation of this energy through the nadis (energy channels). This supports vitality and promotes mental clarity.
To conclude, working the diaphragm in yoga means harmonizing the body, the breath, the mind and the vital energy.
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