Ribs and Breath: The Art of Breathing in Movement

As a former Graham dancer and a certified Gyrotonic trainer, I am continuously fascinated by the power of breath and its impact on movement. Breath is the force that connects the internal rhythms of the body to the external expression of movement. Both Graham technique and the Gyrotonic Method emphasize breathing as a foundation for quality movement, lung capacity, and vocal resonance.

Understanding the Anatomy of Breathing

To truly appreciate the connection between breath and movement, let’s dive into a bit of anatomy. The ribcage houses the lungs and heart, and its structure includes the spine, ribs, and sternum, all held together by a network of muscles. The ribs are like the spokes of a fan, connected to the spine at the back and curving around to meet the sternum in the front.

When we inhale, the diaphragm—a dome-shaped muscle under the lungs—contracts and flattens, creating space for the lungs to expand. The intercostal muscles between the ribs assist in lifting and widening the ribcage, allowing for a fuller, deeper breath. On exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes, the ribcage softens, and air is expelled, completing the cycle.

This intricate dance of the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, and ribcage creates the rhythmic expansion and contraction that fuels every movement. The more we understand and practice this natural process, the more we can harness its power for enhanced performance, both in dance and daily life.

Breathing in the Graham Technique

In Graham technique, breath is foundational. Martha Graham described movement as “contraction and release,” and each contraction comes from the core, fueled by the breath. When I move through a Graham contraction, I feel the breath deepen and root down to my pelvis, drawing energy into my center. The inhale lifts the torso as the ribcage expands, and the exhale grounds me as the spine curves into the contraction. It’s like each breath becomes a dialogue with gravity—lifting, suspending, and finally yielding.

This active engagement with breath gives depth to the contraction, bringing more strength and intention to the movement.

Breathing in the Gyrotonic Method

In the Gyrotonic Method, breath is also a central element. Movements are often paired with specific breathing patterns, encouraging the breath to flow freely and smoothly, much like a wave. Each movement in Gyrotonic invites the ribs to expand and spiral along with the spine, creating a continuous flow that nourishes the entire body.

One of my favorite Gyrotonic exercises is the arch and curl on the Pulley Tower. As I breathe in and arch, the ribs expand, and my spine lifts, feeling open and light. On the exhale, I curl inward, letting the ribs soften and the core engage. The breath animates the spine, making the movement feel organic and effortless.

In both Graham and Gyrotonic, I’ve found that integrating breath into movement transforms it from mere motion into something profound. This mindful breathing allows the spine to find its natural range, encourages full engagement of the core, and creates a powerful flow that aligns and balances the entire body.

Enhancing Lung Capacity and the Quality of Your Voice

Breath is our most essential tool for nourishing the body, yet many of us don’t realize its full potential. Consciously breathing with movement not only enhances lung capacity but also improves posture and strengthens the respiratory muscles.

When we focus on full, expansive breathing, we create more space for the lungs to work efficiently. This deep breathing enhances oxygen flow to the muscles, enabling us to move with more stamina and resilience. Over time, this builds lung capacity, allowing us to perform challenging movements with ease. I’ve noticed that this practice doesn’t just make me a better dancer and trainer—it also improves the quality of my voice.

The connection between breath and voice is essential for anyone who wants to speak, sing, or simply communicate with presence. When the ribcage is open and the diaphragm is active, the voice has a fuller, resonant quality. I’ve noticed that after practicing deep, conscious breathing in Gyrotonic, my voice feels stronger and more grounded. It’s as if the breath fills not only my lungs but also my words, lending them a calm yet vibrant energy.

The Coupling of Breath and Spinal Motion

One of the most profound aspects of breathwork is how it couples with spinal motion. The spine and breath are inextricably linked, with every inhale and exhale subtly influencing the alignment and mobility of the spine. When I work with clients or students, I encourage them to let their breath initiate each movement.

In movements like spirals, arches, and curls, the breath fuels the motion, and the spine follows naturally. By allowing the breath to lead, the movement becomes fluid and intuitive, less reliant on muscular force and more on the inner momentum created by the breath itself.

In both Graham technique and the Gyrotonic Method, this coupling of breath and spinal motion creates a foundation for healthy movement. The breath provides a steady rhythm that guides the spine into gentle, undulating motions that lubricate the joints, release tension, and restore natural alignment. This is particularly beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their range of motion, improve posture, or address chronic pain issues.

Bringing It All Together: Breath as the Source of Movement and Expression

Breath is our first and last action in life. In both dance and Gyrotonic, breathing is far more than an automatic process; it is a conscious act that brings vitality to each moment. The more I work with my breath, the more I find a sense of freedom and expansion—not just in my body, but in my mind and voice as well.

For me, breath is the heart of every movement, connecting my inner world with the external space around me. It’s what transforms an ordinary action into something extraordinary. By consciously cultivating breath, we can enhance the quality of movement, deepen our connection to our bodies, and express ourselves more fully.