As a former first responder, a common mantra I'd say to a patient in distress was, "You need to breathe!" The patient would often shout back, "I am breathing!" But it was easy to see they weren't, and unfortunately, they were unconsciously making things even harder on themselves. Holding your breath when you are nervous, scared, or in pain is a bad idea primarily due to the physiological responses that occur when you hold your breath during times of distress. With acupuncture, practicing proper functional (diaphragmatic) breathing can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your treatment.
For instance, holding your breath during needle placement can exacerbate any possible pain. Your muscles tense when you hold your breath, and the muscular tension can increase the intensity of pain.
Acupuncture aims to rebalance the nervous system and promote relaxation in the body. If you hold your breath, it often indicates tension, fear, or anxiety, which can counteract the calming effects of the treatment. Deep, slow breathing, especially diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, activates the parasympathetic nervous system ("rest and digest" response), helping you relax, lower your heart rate, and reduce blood pressure. This relaxed state allows the acupuncture to be more effective.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by balancing the body's Qi (vital energy) along pathways called meridians. Conscious, deep breathing helps to facilitate the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. When you hold your breath, it can create stagnation or blockages in Qi flow, potentially diminishing the treatment's effectiveness. Breathing is considered the "vehicle" that drives Qi.
Diaphragmatic breathing minimizes discomfort and pain perception. While acupuncture needles are very fine, some people may experience a dull ache, pressure, or a mild prick sensation upon insertion. Holding your breath in anticipation of pain can heighten your mental perception of discomfort. By breathing deeply and rhythmically, you can distract yourself, relax your muscles, and activate your body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms (like endorphin release), making the experience more comfortable.
Also, acupuncture is a holistic therapy that emphasizes the connection between mind and body. Proper breathing supports the mind-body connection. Focusing on your breath during the session helps you stay present and tune into the subtle changes happening within your body. This heightened awareness can deepen the healing experience and enable you to integrate the benefits of the treatment more effectively.
It's also important to note that proper breathing optimizes the insertion and withdrawal of needles. This is why your acupuncturist may guide your breathing during needle insertion and removal to promote a more calming effect and alleviate tension.
Next time you visit your acupuncturist, be aware of your breathing and take note of what you observe during your session. And if you are unaware of what functional (diaphragmatic) breathing is, its numerous positive physiological effects, and how to practice it, look for my blog titled 'Diaphragmatic Breathing'.
Mark Johnston
Oxygen Advantage Functional Breathing Instructor