What type of breathing does lateral flexion facilitate?

Lateral flexion facilitates unilateral breathing because it involves the contraction of the muscles on one side of the body while the opposite side stretches. This movement encourages a focus on one side of the rib cage at a time, allowing for maximal expansion and inspiration of air into the lung on the side that is elongating. As the torso bends to one side, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles work to create a more localized and unilateral movement of the rib cage, promoting more efficient oxygen exchange on that side.

This phenomenon is particularly beneficial because it helps in understanding and practicing breath control and coordination, which are essential elements of Pilates. The emphasis on one side reinforces the stability and alignment of the body while also cultivating a deeper awareness of how breath can influence movement, especially during exercises that require lateral flexion.