Shoulder pain is often caused or worsened by chronic tension from stress and poor posture. Extended exhale breathing combined with conscious shoulder relaxation effectively releases this tension. The parasympathetic activation from proper breathing allows tight shoulder muscles to relax completely.
Shoulder muscles are particularly responsive to nervous system state — when you're stressed, they tense automatically as a protective response. Breathing exercises that shift you to parasympathetic state allow this protective tension to release, often bringing immediate pain relief.
Regular daily breathing practice improves baseline shoulder relaxation, making pain less likely and episodes less severe. Combined with postural awareness and proper ergonomics, breathing exercises form the foundation of shoulder pain management.