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Support your digestion with diaphragmatic breathing

The diaphragm sits beneath the lungs and separates the chest from the abdomen. For more on this, read part 1 here.

The esophagus —the food pipe— is a muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach. It delivers nutrition and liquids through the body and passes through a small opening in the diaphragm. The point where the esophagus goes into the stomach is surrounded by an involuntary muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter —LES. 
The LES prevents the stomach contents from rising back up into the esophagus. When it doesn’t close tightly enough, stomach acid and food particles can flow upwards. This is called acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease —GERD— is a severe form of acid reflux.

Strengthening the diaphragm and actively engaging it during breathing will support digestion by
  • Helping the LES function properly and
  • Promoting the parasympathetic nervous system —rest and digest— response.

Another interesting read on the subject is → Healing irritable bowel syndrome with diaphragmatic breathing

Train your diaphragm and give your body the support it needs by proper breathing. Don't know where to start? I'm here to help!


Stay healthy, stay happy!


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