Actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra, known for her fitness videos, has released a video on Instagram where she is able to hold her breath for a good amount of time.
“Breathe in – NOT OUT. Mastering breath-holding requires discipline and willpower, which can translate to other areas of life. It improves concentration, reduces stress, increases oxygenation of the brain, calms the mind and improves focus,” she has posted on Instagram tagging Raj Panigrahi, a fitness expert.
In the video we can see Shilpa could hold her breath for quite a long time. She could cross the threshold of an athelete’s lungs.
Athlete’s lungs refer to the enhanced lung function and respiratory efficiency seen in individuals who engage in regular, intensive physical training. Athletes, especially those involved in endurance sports like swimming, running, and cycling, tend to have larger lung capacities and superior oxygen utilization compared to non-athletes.
Health benefits of holding breath
Holding your breath, also known as breath-holding training, offers several health benefits, particularly for lung function, mental resilience, and overall well-being. Here are some key advantages:
- Improves lung capacity – Regular breath-holding exercises can enhance lung efficiency, increasing oxygen storage and improving respiratory endurance.
- Strengthens the diaphragm – Controlled breath-holding engages the diaphragm and respiratory muscles, making them stronger and more efficient.
- Enhances oxygen utilization – By practicing controlled breath-holding, the body becomes more efficient at using available oxygen, benefiting athletes and individuals in high-altitude environments.
- Reduces stress and anxiety – Holding your breath, combined with deep breathing techniques, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
- Increases CO2 tolerance – Training breath-holding helps the body adapt to higher carbon dioxide levels, improving endurance and reducing breathlessness during physical exertion.
- Supports cardiovascular health – Short breath-holding exercises can stimulate circulation, regulate heart rate, and promote better oxygen distribution throughout the body.
- Boosts mental focus and resilience – Breath-holding improves mental discipline, mindfulness, and the ability to stay calm under pressure, which is beneficial for athletes and individuals practicing meditation.
