Peak Performance
Understanding your breathing mechanics to optimise your respiritory system
Most people don't know enough about breathwork. Most people who teach breathwork, don't teach you how YOU should breathe. The reason is simple. Everyone is different and everyone needs to breathe in a ways that are good for them at that particular moment in time. More importantly most people dont understand the importance of Co2 in the body.
Breathing for yourself
Oxygen Delivery:
CO₂ regulates the release of oxygen from hemoglobin to body tissues. Low CO₂ levels strengthen the bond between oxygen and hemoglobin, making it harder for oxygen to reach cells—a concept known as the Bohr Effect.
01
Compensatory Mechanisms: When usable oxygen decreases due to low CO₂, the body may increase blood pressure and heart rate to enhance oxygen delivery. However, these adjustments can lead to long-term health issues.
02
pH Balance:
Reduced CO₂ causes blood pH to become more alkaline, disrupting enzyme and vitamin activities. If blood pH reaches 8 or higher, it can be fatal. CO₂ helps maintain pH balance through the bicarbonate buffering system.
03
Airway and Blood Vessel Dilation:
Adequate CO₂ levels relax smooth muscles, widening airways and blood vessels, which improves airflow and circulation.
04
Metabolic Processes:
CO₂ is vital for metabolic pathways like gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis, aiding in the synthesis of essential compounds such as certain amino acids. Low CO₂ impairs these processes.
05
Nervous System Stability:
Low CO₂ levels increase nervous system excitability, leading to heightened stress and reduced focus.
06
Brain Function:
Insufficient CO₂ can disrupt synaptic activity in the brain, affecting cognitive functions.
07
Cellular Communication:
CO₂ plays a role in cell signaling pathways, facilitating effective communication between cells.
08
Immune Response:
Proper CO₂ levels support immune function, aiding the body's defense against pathogens.