Just Breathe...Slowly...

It seems as though different sources are always telling us how to breathe. Here is one link from a news source, which, suggests deep breathing for relaxation. Here is another link from doctor describing how running beyond your capabilities can cause a side-stitch and the root cause is because of how a person breathes. They both seem to have one thing in common. If things are not working out the way you planned, breathing slowly has been shown to help.

As an example, we had some friends over last Thursday night for a get together and one of them was talking about a person they disliked being around because of the way they reacted to everything with the "fight or flight" response. One thing that was noted was how easy it was to tell that the annoying person was in this mode because the short, fast breaths were quite apparent. According to the above, that person needs to slow down and relax by breathing more slowly. Of course, they could also probably benefit from seeing a psychologist for anxiety, but that's a different post.

On a personal note, I have noticed different breathing techniques while running. The one that really caught me off guard was a seasoned runner using a structured breathing technique. She breathed three quick breaths followed by one deep breath. I talked with her coach after our race and he explained it was a technique they used to teach. Most of the time when I am running I don't hear people with structured breathing, but I notice something else. I am usually breathing a lot longer and deeper breaths. I am not sure how or why I developed this, but I am assuming it is just how my body has adapted to my increase in running over the years.

Anyone else have quirky stories related to breathing?