breathing when stretching

[jcvd-owns]

i was wondering what breathing patterns, if any that i should do when im down in my splits....

for example... breath for 4 seconds hold for 4 breath out for 8 or something like that or should i breath quickly

[SoKKlab]

Breathe as naturally as you can. Do not do any of that daft Ichi forced breathing malarky!

Just stick with a natural rhythm to relax in the position, as much as you can. The Less Strain, the Less Pain.

Do not, even for a few seconds, hold your breath.

[jcvd-owns]

k thx man

[KickChick]

Breathing correctly is crucial for proper stretching. It helps to relax the body and bring enough oxygen and nutrients to the muscles through increased blood flow. This can also be achieved prior to your stretch routine as described here http://www.martialartsplanet.com/magazine/stretching/warmupdebs.htm in the Breathing Meditation section.

While perform your stretches and splits, the breathing should be relaxed, exhaling as you increase the stretch.

The intensity of a stretch should be increased only when exhaling (apart from isometric stretching). The correct way to breathe is to inhale through the nose, as this has the function of filtering the air and ensuring optimum temperature and humidity for oxygen transfer in the lungs. The exhalation should be done in a slow, controlled manner as Sokklab suggested.

[Maximicus]

In some yogic practices there are breathing teqniques that supposedly put you into a near coma! Breath normal, or try (budist or some yogic) meditation breathing. Just make sure to relax, do go trance in the splits!