Sara on a mission to find answers!
Have you ever noticed that your breath catches or even pauses completely right before and during orgasm? I always wondered why this happens to us ... here is what I discovered.
The Big Build-Up
As we approach orgasm, our body is revving up in ways we might not even notice, perhaps because we are too busy as it is (;. our blood flow increases, heart rate spikes, and our breathing naturally speeds up as arousal heightens. This is all part of our body preparing for the grand finale!
OK, cool - but why does it sometimes feel like we suddenly hold our breath right before things hit the peak?
The Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Well, it appears that the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “fight or flight” response, plays a big role here. When we are highly aroused, this system kicks into gear, leading to an adrenaline rush that gets our heart pumping and breath quickening. However, as we get closer to orgasm, the body shifts its focus.
In the moments just before orgasm, the brain’s control over the body becomes more intense. Our focus narrows, muscles tense, and the body prepares to experience the release of all that built-up tension. This intense concentration and physical tension is what can cause us to momentarily stop breathing—almost like our body is holding its breath in anticipation of the release.
The Tension and Release Cycle
During sex, our body goes through cycles of tension and release. As we approach orgasm, muscle tension builds up to a peak, and the anticipation of release is so powerful that it can cause you to momentarily forget to breathe. Then, as orgasm hits, there’s a massive release of endorphins, which triggers a relaxation of that tension—including the tension in our diaphragm, which controls our breathing.
It’s similar to the way athletes hold their breath when lifting heavy weights or performing a difficult move. The body instinctively knows that holding breath can help stabilise and focus energy. Right before orgasm, our body instinctively does something similar—holding that breath as all the energy is focused on the impending release.
The Psychological Factor: Losing Control
There’s also a psychological element at play. Orgasm is often about losing control—a surrender to the sensations and emotions flooding our body. When we're completely lost in the moment, our body might take over and instinctively hold our breath, almost like a way of heightening the experience. It’s as if our body is saying, “Hold on, we’re about to go on a wild ride.”
After the Peak: The BIG Exhale
Once orgasm occurs, the release is usually accompanied by a deep exhale. It’s that sigh of relief and pleasure as our muscles relax and our body returns to its normal state. That exhale is our body’s way of saying, “We did it. Now, let’s relax!!" (;
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Breathing in Sensual Massages
If you already know me, you would have heard me talk about breathwork! The wonderful ART , the varieties and benefits of breath will probably never cease to amaze me... Without a doubt, controlled breathing can enhance your sensual massage experience as well, helping you maintain focus and prolong pleasure. Trying to focus on your breath can be almost exasperating when you're about to explode, but, if you can do it, the end result can be magical! When you’re aware of your breathing, you can use it to deepen your arousal, guiding your body through waves of tension and release.
Furthermore - techniques like deep belly breathing or synchronised breathing with your partner can also intensify sensations and create a more profound connection during intercourse/tantric sex.
So, the next time you notice your breath catching or holding right before that big moment, remember that it’s your body’s way of enhancing the experience. By understanding and even controlling your breath, you might just find that you can take your pleasure to new, EXCITING heights.
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