Systema to Reduce Tension
Systema , a Russian form of martial art, is a philosophy of life focused upon reducing tension in all aspects of your life. It is not directly obvious that any martial art would have application to medicine, but in this case it does. The number of medical conditions that would be improved upon if there was less tension in someone’s life is too numerous to count. And who wouldn’t want less tension in their life or agree that having less tension would improve quality of life?
According to Systema a key element in tension reduction is breathing. Not just breathing per say but with Systema there is a different focus on the quality, timing, and intent of breathing. This is different than Yoga, Pilates, or other disciplines that focus on breathing. In through the nose (to increase oxygen more quickly to the brain) and out through the mouth (to facilitate restoration in the rest of your body). At least as important is movement, which is initiated by proper breathing technique. In fact it is the act of breathing that initiates quality of movement as opposed to the more common perception that people breathe more heavily after movement.