 |
This is an
impressively original and innovative book, by an author whose careers include professional
singer, teacher and qualified breathing trainer.
The techniques utilised include an eclectic mix of Feldenkrais,
Alexander, Middendorf and Wolf, as well as various eastern practices, including Yoga.
The importance of proper and efficient breathing
in health enhancement is becoming widely recognised across the entire
range of therapeutic disciplines. Incorrect breathing patterns, such as
hyper- or hypo-ventilation and shallow breathing can contribute significantly
to many physical, emotional and psychological health problems, such as
panic attacks, back pain and may even contribute to illnesses with breathing
disorders such as asthma. Specialised breathing techniques such as Buteyko
breathing have been developed to specifically counter conditions such
as asthma.
This book introduces the anatomy and various types of breathing,
and is extensively and well-illustrated with hundreds of coloured diagrams. The author
devotes a chapter to effective exercising, where all aspects of exercising are covered,
including the place, equipment, clothing, warming up and setting reasonable goals. The
basic positions for all exercises are clearly illustrated, including standing, squatting,
kneeling, sitting and lying positions.
The majority of the book involves a multitude of breathing
exercises, from becoming aware of your breathing, to many routines which are specific for
different parts of the body, i.e. ribs and diaphragm, lower back, buttocks, abdomen and
legs.
There are a variety of sequences, each taking about 15 minutes,
each of which is illustrated, with the purpose and objectives explained clearly. Many of
these appear somewhat similar to yoga. There is a considerable progression involved in
each sequence; some of these postures require a fair degree of flexibility and might be
prohibitively difficult to achieve for people with back or other injuries.
Many people who would most benefit from many of these breathing
exercises are those whose breathing is restricted, possibly because of injury or lack of
flexibility and mobility. My principal criticism of the book is that is does not readily
appear to accommodate this group, which is a shame, because alternative or intermediate
positions could be provided in order to encourage people with more limited physical
prowess.
The book concludes with a very useful section on how good
breathing can be integrated into the daily routine, from waking up, while doing skin
brushing, eating, and how to counteract tension. There is finally an entire section about
how to overcome shallow breathing, how to stay alert and getting to sleep.
At the back of the book is a chart recommending various exercises
to counteract various conditions, such as tiredness, low energy levels, anger,
irritability, insomnia, even digestive problems, blocked sinuses and a stiff back.
This is a lovely book which also serves a useful purpose, to
highlight the importance of correct and effective breathing to all aspects of our daily
life and in promoting health.
|
