the mechanics of breathing
Breathe in. Feel the air rush through your nostrils. Notice how breathing can feel both effortless and effortful. Breathing is a movement process, to move air into and out of the lungs we increase and decrease the space of the thoracic cavity. All movement is created by the musculoskeletal system.
FACT: an increase in volume (space in the thoracic cavity), decreases pressure (in the lungs) creating a rush of air into the lungs.
Now, imagine the ribcage (2) —in between the individual ribs are intercostal muscles. Intercostals lift the ribs, increasing the space in the side body.
TRY the above movement again; hands = central tendon, elbows = ribs. Remember to add an INHALE as you move.
Isn’t that magical?
Imagine the diaphragm (1), a dome-shaped muscle, which includes a central tendon. It’s the diaphragm that increases the space at the base of the thoracic cavity.
TRY THIS: place hands in prayer position at your chest and interlace your fingers; slowly lift the elbows out and up (flattening-diaphragm) —notice your hands moving downward (central tendon). Add an INHALE as you move! With increased space in the thoracic cavity, air rushes into your lungs.
Efficient breathing mechanics therefore requires efficient movement. Is your thoracic movement 360 degrees? Test it! Place your hands along various points of your ribcage and notice what happens when you breath. In the next practice, let’s see if you can make more space for your breath.
the BREATH
Anchors the Mind
Massages the Viscera (Organs)
Maintains a Healthy Pelvic Floor Length-Tension
Creates Dynamic Stability
Influences Autonomic Nervous System
