Healing from the Inside Out: The Power of Breath, Hypopressives, and Positive Thought
Imagine a soft, fluffy polar bear prowling about an icy flow.
It’s vivid in your mind, isn’t it? Now, try to forget about the polar bear entirely.
Now, Stop thinking about it.
Not so easy, right? The harder you try, the more persistent the image becomes.
But what if I ask you to think about something else entirely?
Picture a tall, graceful giraffe running across the savannah, its long neck swaying rhythmically as it moves majestically through the golden grass. Close your eyes for a moment and focus on that giraffe.
Did you picture the giraffe? Great. And while you were thinking about the giraffe, did the polar bear cross your mind? Likely not. That’s because our minds can only hold one dominant thought at a time. This simple exercise shows the potential of redirecting focus to replace negativity with positive imagery—a powerful tool in promoting a healing mindset.
The Link Between Mindset and Healing
Just as this exercise demonstrates, we can actively "melt" negative thoughts by redirecting our focus. When we start to spiral into self-doubt, stress, or negativity, having a mental "store" of positive, calming images can help shift our mindset. With practice, this can rewire our thought patterns and create an environment that promotes healing at the cellular level.
This isn’t just a feel-good idea; science backs it up. Our thoughts and emotions have a huge effect on our autonomic nervous system, which governs processes like digestion, heart rate, and even the healing of tissues. By choosing positive thoughts, we encourage the release of beneficial hormones and chemicals, such as serotonin and oxytocin, that can boost physical and emotional recovery.
Breath Work and Cellular Healing
Breath is the bridge between our conscious and subconscious mind, and it’s a direct way to influence our body’s healing processes. Hypopressives, a form of breath work and postural training, go beyond traditional breathing exercises by incorporating diaphragmatic engagement and postural alignment. This method not only strengthens the core and pelvic floor but also calms the nervous system and supports optimal oxygenation of tissues.
When you practice Hypopressives, you’re doing more than engaging your diaphragm; you’re creating a state of balance and harmony within your body. This enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports cellular repair. Coupled with intentional, positive thoughts, you’re not just healing the body—you’re healing from the cellular level outward.
The Synergy of Breath and Positive Thought
Combining focused breath work like Hypopressives with positive visualisation amplifies their individual effects. Imagine this: as you engage in Hypopressives, visualise your cells regenerating, your muscles growing stronger, and your body functioning as a cohesive, thriving team. Instead of dwelling on pain or limitations, picture yourself achieving the strength, freedom, and energy you desire.
A Simple Exercise to Get Started
Find a Quiet Space: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
Breathe Deeply: Practice a few rounds of 360 lateral costal breathing to calm your mind and body.
Engage Hypopressives: Transition into a Hypopressive posture, focusing on lengthening your spine and softening your pelvic floor while maintaining steady, intentional breathing.
Visualise Positivity: Bring to mind a calming or empowering image—perhaps a field of wildflowers, a serene lake, or a vibrant tree swaying in the wind. Inhale an joyful image and exhale a calming one.
Replace Negativity: If a negative thought arises, gently redirect your focus to your positive image. Allow the negativity to "melt" away.
Healing Is a Journey
Like learning any new skill, building this synergy of breath, Hypopressives, and positive thought takes practice. But over time, it becomes second nature. The goal isn’t perfection but progress—cultivating a mindset and physical state that support deep, cellular healing. By embracing this approach, you’re not just addressing symptoms; you’re empowering yourself to heal from the inside out.
Take a deep breath, focus on that majestic giraffe, and let’s start this healing journey together. Contact me at: abby@hypopressivescotland.com to get started.
