Buzz
Sword swallowing is far from being a mere illusion. Trained individuals genuinely insert blades, sometimes measuring over 16 inches, into their bodies. So, how do they manage this feat? The answer lies in their control of the esophagus.
Mastering the age-old craft of sword swallowing demands years of practice. Performers must gain control over natural reflexes, like the gag reflex. According to a 2006 study of sword swallowers, training begins with “fingers down the throat,” but progresses to various objects such as spoons, paintbrushes, knitting needles, and plastic tubes, before advancing to a bent wire coat hanger. The study notes that “sore throats are common” during this process.
The sword must navigate through the upper esophageal sphincter, which governs movements like burping, eating, and vomiting. After that, the performer bends their body so the blade can curve around the heart. Finally, the sword passes through the lower esophageal sphincter, the entrance to the stomach. These muscles operate involuntarily and help prevent stomach contents from rising. Weakness in these muscles can lead to acid reflux.
Through rigorous training, sword swallowers learn to control this sphincter at will, allowing the sword to enter the stomach. One practitioner told The Washington Post that she was unaware of how she did it, relying solely on intense concentration to relax the muscles. With enough practice, some sword swallowers even learn to hold multiple swords simultaneously in their throat.
Indeed, it’s a perilous practice. A single misstep can result in sword swallowers puncturing their throats or causing severe internal damage. However, when executed correctly, it’s an astounding display of bodily mastery.
