When a client complains of neck tension or pain, one of the first aspects I observe is their breathing mechanics. Rather than solely addressing neck muscles, I focus on the interplay between the neck, shoulder, and rib cage.

Let’s get the party going in the Ribs as well!

Simultaneously, emphasis on ribcage expansion is vital. Visualize the ribs expanding outward during inhalation for a 360-degree breath, engaging intercostal muscles and optimizing lung capacity. Limited motion in the rib structures can impede proper breathing, addressed in Rolfing Session #1.

Rib expansion is essential for optimal respiratory function, involving coordination between ribs, intercostal muscles, and connective tissues. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles work together, with the diaphragm contracting and descending during inhalation, complemented by intercostal muscle expansion.

Remove the Restrictions with manual therapy - follow it with individualized movement training.

Exercises emphasizing rib expansion, like lateral breathing, enhance intercostal muscle flexibility and strength. This improves respiratory efficiency, ensuring better oxygenation and a balanced breathing pattern. After removing any restrictions I follow it with movements my client does including exercises to strengthen the opposing muscles that have been inhibited from the restrictions. Typically, these are either the muscles involved in inhalation or the muscles involved in exhalation. Check out this video I found on VIMEO showing the movement of the rib cage.

“Stop Sucking it in!” Hourglass Syndrome

"Hourglass Syndrome" refers to constant stomach muscle contraction negatively impacting breathing and body function. Relaxing the stomach and practicing diaphragmatic breathing improves coordination between the diaphragm and abdominal muscles, enhancing respiratory function and maintaining pressure system balance.

Neglecting proper breathing mechanics, especially diaphragmatic breathing, leads to overactive secondary respiratory muscles, causing issues like neck tension, shallow breathing, increased energy expenditure, and poor posture. Retraining the body through diaphragmatic breathing exercises and strengthening supports healthier respiratory patterns.

Stay tuned for my favorite exercises in part 2!