OBDS - Optimal Breathing Development Specialist
Insights from a Licensed
Physical Therapist.
Strapping: This technique was fascinating b/c it is a very fast,
efficient way to rapidly change one’s depth, breadth and perception of the
breath in the cylinder of the torso. It also changes where the diaphragm is
positioned in the torso, which in turn can have a very dramatic effect on the
tensions in the neck, upper and lower extremities. After simply doing a few
strapping techniques I saw dramatic changes, for the better, in the Ober and
Thomas tests, for example. When these tests are positive the very last thing a
PT would consider is prompt treatment of the diaphragm.
These techniques also allowed me to feel and see
how much easier it is to truly initiate a breath with the diaphragm, from the
lower part of the torso. In retrospect I believe I never understood just how
low this breath is really initiated. I feel I will now be able to help my
patients with their own problems, both with much better tools and with an in
depth understanding of where they need to go.
Reflexive Breathing:
This is easier to perceive after
strapping and is
something I think I avoid as a PT because it takes a lot of inner listening,
time and moments of non-doing. Not a point of strength or habit in my
repertoire. In the pleasant environment in which it was learned it felt great
to take the time to notice its existence. I will make an effort to include it
in my patient care.
Voice and sound:
This was great for me to have an advanced work
session around because it gave me a sense of myself, my fears, anxieties and
body posturing, in a way I have never before experienced.
I feel that I have learned both a number of
wonderful techniques to help my patients and gained new insight into my
breathing, body and mind. Liz H.
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