Health in Five // The Connection Between Breathing & Pelvic Floor Health
Health in Five // Pelvic Floor Health with Jocelyn Braun, PT and Krista Leipprandt, PTA
Pelvic floor health plays an important role in overall wellness. Something as simple as deep breathing can make a meaningful difference.
In the latest Health Five feature from Scheurer Health, Physical Therapist Jocelyn Braun and Physical Therapy Assistant Krista Leipprandt explain how belly breathing helps support the pelvic floor, diaphragm and core by encouraging them to work together naturally.
The pelvic floor and diaphragm function like a coordinated system. As you breathe in, the diaphragm moves downward while the pelvic floor relaxes and lowers slightly. As you breathe out, both move back upward together, creating a gentle contraction and helping strengthen stability throughout the core.
To Practice Belly Breathing:
- Find a comfortable position on a bed, flat surface, chair or while side lying
- Breathe in slowly through your nose
- Allow your stomach to gently inflate
- Exhale through your mouth
- Focus on keeping the abdomen relaxed and moving naturally with your breath
The goal is controlled abdominal expansion while maintaining stability throughout the body.
According to Jocelyn, consistent daily practice can help improve coordination between the pelvic floor, diaphragm and core muscles over time. Belly breathing may also help promote relaxation, stability and overall pelvic floor function.
Small daily habits can lead to meaningful improvements—and this simple exercise is an easy place to start.
Learn more about Rehabilitation Services at Scheurer Health here.
