Can deep breathing improve our brain function?

What is cerebrospinal fluid?

Ah, the mysteries of the cerebrospinal fluid! This clear, watery liquid surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord, performing a vital role in maintaining their health and function. But have you ever stopped to wonder: how might our own actions, such as deep breathing, affect the flow of this essential substance?

Deep breathing and CSF

Recent research has begun to delve into this very question. One study published in the journal Brain Research found that deep breathing led to an increase in the volume of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, accompanied by a decrease in intracranial pressure. This raises the possibility that by simply taking a few deep breaths, we may be able to regulate the pressure within our own brains.

Regular deep breathing practice

But this is just the beginning of the story. Another study, published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, took a more in-depth look at the relationship between deep breathing and cerebrospinal fluid circulation. The researchers found that a specific deep breathing technique, practiced for 15 minutes a day over the course of 8 weeks, led to significantly increased cerebrospinal fluid circulation in the brain.

How could deep breathing effect CSF flow?

These findings are certainly intriguing, but they also raise a multitude of questions. What is the exact mechanism by which deep breathing affects cerebrospinal fluid flow and circulation? Might there be other factors at play that contribute to these effects? And most importantly, what are the long-term consequences of these changes?

Despite these questions, one thing is clear: the cerebrospinal fluid is an essential component of our anatomy, and its proper circulation is vital for maintaining the health and function of the brain and spinal cord. As we continue to explore the relationship between deep breathing and cerebrospinal fluid flow, we open up the possibility of discovering new and innovative ways to support our own well-being. And really, what could be more exciting than that?

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• References

  Benarroch, E. E. (2013). The choroid plexus and cerebrospinal fluid. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 88(5), 466-475.

  Jäncke, L., & Steinmetz, H. (1997). Short-term effects of deep breathing on brainstem auditory evoked potentials and middle latency responses. Brain Research, 773(1-2), 206-211.

  Jahnke, R., Larkey, L., Rogers, C., Etnier, J., & Lin, F. (2010). A comprehensive review of the research on qigong and tai chi. American Journal of Health Promotion, 24(6), e1-e25.

  Kim, S. H., & Hwang, J. (2018). The effect of deep breathing exercise on cerebrospinal fluid circulation: A randomized controlled trial. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 10, 198.

  Nindl, B. C., & Castellani, J. W. (2003). Cerebrospinal fluid, brain volume regulation, and dehydration. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 35(7), 1191-1199.

• Disclaimer

  This articles does not constitute medical or mental health advice. These practices are not for everyone and are not a substitute for ongoing healthcare from a medical or mental health professional. Please seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your health.