Breathing Through Inspiration: The Power of Inspiration in Every Sense

Inspiration—it’s a word that oscillates effortlessly between the physical and the abstract. It fuels creative breakthroughs, ignites passion, and anchors us in moments of sheer awe. But did you know that inspiration is also the core of our very existence? It’s the act of drawing in a breath, an intimate connection between our inner and outer worlds.

Inspiration as Breath

The word "inspiration" comes from the Latin *inspirare*, meaning "to breathe into." Every inhale is a offering, a direct transfer of life-sustaining oxygen from the atmosphere into the beautiful maze of our lungs. From there, the wisdom of our body takes over. Oxygen feeds cells, enabling energy production and life force. It’s a reminder of how deeply we are connected to the world around us—every breath ties us to plants, the ocean, and all breathing creatures.

Inspiration as a Spark

But inspiration isn’t just about air filling your lungs; it’s about what fills your soul. Think about the last time you felt inspired. Maybe it was a powerful story, a breathtaking view, or an act of kindness that left you feeling deeply connected to the moment. Perhaps it made you pause—literally catching your breath—as your nervous system recalibrated to absorb the beauty or meaning of the experience.

This duality of inspiration as both breath and a spark of life is where magic happens. The two are inseparable: when we are inspired, we breathe more deeply, and when we breathe deeply, we create space for inspiration.

Many people find inspired ideas during breath work or as they walk in nature. In the time that my children consider “boring time” those quiet moments are when our inspiration can create magic.

Breath as a Portal

In my work with women navigating pelvic floor dysfunction, I often see the profound impact of breath on healing. When we bring awareness to our breathing—not shallow, chest-bound breaths, but deep, functional breaths that integrate the entire body—we begin to unlock more than just physical potential. We tap into an emotional and spiritual connection that lies deep inside.

Functional breathing brings resilience, grounding us in the present while opening a channel for creativity and connection. By learning to breathe well, we pave the way for our minds and bodies to be inspired.

Inspired by the World Around Us

Think about this way: the same trees that recycle the carbon dioxide we exhale also teach us a powerful lesson about inspiration. Through their root systems, trees communicate, share nutrients, and support one another, forming a vast, interconnected network. Similarly, we are part of a grand ecosystem. The energy we give through our breath—our literal inspiration—is received and transformed by the world, just as the inspiration we absorb from others shapes our internal landscapes.

Whether it’s the air filling our lungs or the stories that fill our hearts, inspiration is what keeps us alive, growing, and connected.

A Practice for the Inspired Life

The next time you feel stuck or overwhelmed, pause and take a conscious breath. Let that breath anchor you, expanding your ribs, lifting your heart, and settling your mind. Notice how it creates space—not just in your body but also in your life—for new ideas, possibilities, and a deeper sense of connection.

Through breath, we receive the world. Through inspiration, we shape it. Let’s breathe deeply, live fully, and remain open to the whispers of wonder all around us.

360 Lateral Costal Breathing

Lateral costal breathing, often called "rib cage breathing," focuses on expanding the sides and back of the rib cage rather than the chest or belly. This technique encourages a deep, three-dimensional breath that naturally engages the diaphragm without creating unnecessary pressure in the abdomen or pelvic floor.

In my work, I love guiding clients to feel this type of breath because it's gentle yet powerful. Imagine your ribs like an accordion, softly expanding out to the sides and back with each inhale and gently drawing back in with the exhale. This movement allows the breath to flow evenly throughout your body, creating space and connection without pushing downward into the pelvic floor—a critical point for anyone managing pelvic floor dysfunction.

By practicing lateral costal breathing, you support a more balanced relationship between your diaphragm, ribs, and pelvic floor, fostering strength and fluidity from within. It's not about forcing the breath but about feeling it with awareness and ease, helping your body feel supported and aligned. It's a beautiful, accessible practice that ties breath, movement, and healing into one.

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