Post #4086902

2026-07-25 11:54 UTC

Asking science folks who have the real data, not the sellers of snake oil: I’m trying some breathing exercises (box breathing, exhale and hold, etc. ) to interrupt the tension that builds when I play my bagpipes in performance. Is the parasympathetic system resistant to “training” an association with repeated fight or flight? In other words, if you keep doing the thing that creates the need to use breathing techniques to reduce tension in my body (performing bagpipe sets for world-class judges in competition) do the breathing techniques become the trigger for the tension? Or is the parasympathetic system powerful enough to just work no matter how often you engage it consciously? #Parasympatheticactivation #Musicians #Science

Replies (2)

@graymattergrcltd@infosec.exchange 2026-07-25 12:00

Of course, if I assume it will, it probably will, right? Focus on the now, Maxwell. #JodiTaylor #TimePolice #ILiveInMyHead

Open ##4093412
@eoinmorris@mastodon.ie 2026-07-26 13:30

@graymattergrcltd@infosec.exchange from my underdtanding deep slow breathing causes the heart to slow down signalling the brain that the threat is over and all is safe. Fast shallow breathing activates the sympothetic nervious system into fight or flight. If you watch sprinters before starting a race they do short sharp breaths to activate fight and flight which directs blood to mussel groups like the legs. Playing the pipes maybe activating the sympothetic, fight or flight response

Open ##4498521