International Conference on Applied Psychology, Psychiatry and Mental Health

Breathing patterns reflect not only the functioning of the respiratory system but our biomechanical system, biochemical, physiology and psychology. Recent studies reveal breathing pattern disorders developed through trauma or stress, chronic illness conditions and even sports performance play a direct role on cognition and emotional intelligence.

We are all born nasal diaphragmatic breathers. These breathing rhythms are designed to regulate hormonal & neural activity responsible for cognition, self regulation and emotional intelligence. Studies reveal that natural nasal diaphragmatic breathing synchronizes both the left and right prefrontal cortexes of the brain. As breathing pattern disorders (BPD) develop, we switch from nasal breathing to mouth breathing or shallow breathing switching and the HPA axis becomes the dominant autonomic function. Ongoing BPD trains these parts of the brain and our Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) to live in a state of fight-or-flight causing a myriad of mental & emotional health issues.

Homeostasis in the heart/brain/body is achieved through the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) and Vagus Nerve. As scientific studies have revealed, heart rates communicate 80% of what’s happening in the brain. Heart rates, brain function and ANS are all responding to respiration. Notably, the researchers also report that people with a higher Heart Rate Variability (which represents healthy vagal tone) showed lower biomarkers for stress, increased psychological and physical resilience, as well as better cognitive function.

In this lecture, I'll be addressing how incorporating mindful breathing strategies in patient care can improve breathing rates and patterns. Breathing treatments are an optimal tool for strengthening the PNS and vagal tone providing the ability to transform old feedback loops related to thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns.