Our Amazing Bodies: Xiphoid Process

I wondered how I might close out my A-Z gratitude list with the sometimes challenging letters of X, Y, and Z. Then, I decided to see what body parts start with these letters. Learning commenced.

I begin with the xiphoid process. This is a body part I was already aware of, mainly thanks to first learning CPR in high school. Locate the xiphoid process, then put two fingers on it to help determine placement for chest compressions. Sound familiar?

Google helped me add to my limited knowledge of this small but important body part. The xiphoid process is the lowest portion of our sternum or breastbone, where the lower ribs attach. The name comes from a Greek word for straight sword, which it resembles. Although the xiphoid process is small, it serves as an attachment point for organs and large muscles that make the floor of the diaphragm. It starts out as cartilage and hardens as we age.

It may be small, but it helps make breathing possible. Minor in size, significant role in our amazing bodies. To pause and find my own xiphoid process brings me to my flat chest terrain, which reminds me of my years of cancer survivorship, which brings generous gratitude. To further pause and consider all the working parts of our exceptional and complex human bodies humbles me and reminds me to take good care of what I have. And I smile as I think about my xiphoid process hardening as I age. Better that little body part than my heart.

I decided to greet my xiphoid process. It sounded like this: “Good morning xiphoid process. Thank you for being here. Thank you for being a part of this amazing body of mine that keeps plugging along. How are you doing today? What’s that you say? You like it when I do those breathing exercises. It relaxes you. Good to know.”

With a grateful heart, and a relaxed xiphoid process, I wish you all a good day!