Breathing at Altitude: Maximizing Oxygen Intake
Arapahoe Basin sits over 2 miles above sea level. While folks in Denver might think they live in the mountains, the altitude difference from Florida to Denver is similar to that from Denver to A‑Basin’s base. It’s common to feel short of breath at high elevations. Remember to take it slow and stay hydrated!
Effectively breathing at higher altitudes is essential. Often, we only use the upper parts of our lungs and can miss optimizing our oxygen intake, particularly in the thinner mountain air. By practicing diaphragmatic breathing, you can engage your entire lung capacity for better oxygen absorption.
Why Diaphragmatic Breathing?
Diaphragmatic breathing involves using the diaphragm, the muscle located at the base of the chest, to draw air deep into the lungs. This method not only increases oxygen intake but also aids in stress reduction.
A popular technique for managing stress and enhancing focus is 4‑4‑4 breathing: inhale for a count of four, hold your breath for four seconds, and then exhale for another four. Repeating this cycle can help calm your mind and body.
Understanding Belly Breathing
The term “belly breathing” can be a bit misleading, as it might imply filling your stomach with air. Instead, think of it as expanding the bottom of your rib cage outward. This movement creates more room for the lungs to fill with oxygen, making your breaths more effective.
Simple Exercise for Lung Expansion
To practice this, try the following fun exercise:
- Place Your Hands: Rest your hands over your lower ribs.
- Inhale Deeply: As you take a deep breath in, focus on moving the bottom of your rib cage outward, feeling your hands move away from your body.
- Exhale Slowly: Feel your ribs return to their original position as you exhale.
This simple exercise helps reinforce the concept of diaphragmatic breathing and encourages you to take fuller, more effective breaths, especially at altitude.
Remember, breathing deeply and mindfully can enhance your skiing experience, making every run more enjoyable as you soak in the magnificent mountain scenery!