Network of Diaphragms – NOD©
The NOD© or Network of Diaphragms is the “chain of events” of breathing. Breathing is an inherently intricate and harmonious dance of our five diaphragms and their authoritative muscles.
The Body’s Five Diaphragms
l The continuous pulsation of these diaphragms will create movement andencourage entrainment (coordination of a rhythm) within the body.
¡Ethmoid and Sphenoid Bone
l The Foramen Magnum (the opening in the base of the skull) has the flexibility to ride up and down to increase or decrease pressure
¡The upper or oral end
l The dura covering and the spinal cord pump cerebrospinal fluid
¡The middle diaphragm (mid abdominal)
l Aids in respiration
l Massages the heart and Vagus nerve
l Increases and decreases inter-thoracic and abdominal pressure
l Stimulates Lymph movement
¡Pelvic End
l Support reciprocal movement
¡Obturator Internus
¡Levator Ani
¡Coccygeus
¡Urogenital Diaphragm
¡The Foot
l Initiates the return of oxygen and fluids from the lower extremities.
¡Pereonous Longus
¡Posterior Tibialis
by understanding movement and moving correctly we become more efficient
Stages of Movement:
Breath or NOD©
* On exhalation the body positions itself for exertion.
* This engages the “Core” muscles
Engagement of “Core” muscles
* The 26 muscles of the “Core” will automatically position themselves into a movement posture.
* This engagement will subconsciously position the correct postural muscles to ensure proper movement.
With the body in proper posture the muscles of dynamics will be able to fire in proper order to generate proper movement.
It is important to remember that resistant movement in Pilates does not develop muscles. Joseph Pilates developed Contrology to strengthen the muscles as the body returns to its starting position. This is critical in many ways, first of all the body needs to stay in its proper center on return of the same axis of travel as was initially visualized. Secondly, the springs that are used on the machines are meant to assist the body as it strengthens itself. So contrary to a normal “exercise” modality such as weight training, Pilates Movement uses more of the individuals inner muscles or “Core” to generate and direct the process of moving in the body’s own center.