One of Simon’s most popular videos on YouTube

Although there are many benefits to learning how to use all the muscles of breathing, and to learn to breathe in many ways, in over breathing (hyperventilation) can have significant physiological disadvantages while breathing in a relaxed and natural way and approaching under-breathing (mild hypoventilation) has the most physiological benefits.
In this popular 6 minute video clip, which is an extract from the Yoga Synergy Yogic Nutrition Video physiotherapist and research scientist Simon Borg-Olivier explains the benefits of not over-breathing and actually allowing carbon dioxide to build up.

The less you breathe in and out the more you will build up carbon dioxide inside your body. Contrary to popular belief carbon dioxide and the carbonic acid it becomes in your blood has many benefits inside the body.

Carbon dioxide and carbonic acid build up inside you from breathing less than normal (mild hypoventilation):

*** brings more blood to your brain and heart (vasodilation)
*** allows more air to enter your lungs (bronchdilitation)
*** calms your nervous system
*** reduces your need and craving for heavy, processed and acid food

For a beginner the best way to do get the benefits of a build up of carbon dioxide is to try to maintain relaxed abdominal breathing as much as possible and in as many activities as you can. A great activity is to go for a brisk walk and try to keep your breath as natural and relaxed as possible. You will find this easier to do if allow your abdomen to relax more than you may normally do and allow you hips and spine to move more freely like and olympic walker. However, for more advanced practitioners there are several other things you can do with your breath that can increase carbon dioxide once your body is adequately prepared.