"A more useful science than the science of respiration, a more beneficial science than the science of respiration, a greater friend than the science of respiration has never been seen nor heard." – Shivagama

Yoga breathing is a science of breath control. Breathing (Inhaling) is necessary for two reasons. The respiratory system supplies oxygen to our bodies and its various organs which is necessary for our survival. The second function of breathing (Exhalation)is that it is one means to out of waste products in form of carbon dioxide and toxins from the body in to the atmoshpher. This combined process is called gaseous exchange which forms in the lungs.

Any how for an inhaling or exhaling process the nasal passages, the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs and muscles; diaphragm, external and internal intercostals, transverse abdominal, scaleni and sternomastoids are the necessary organs which takes place to complete a gaseous exchange.

The physiology:

In the inhalation process the diaphragm contracts and flattens as it reduces the pressure in the chest cavity for which lungs makes sound. When the air is entered in to body it equalise the pressure. After just an Inhalation another natural prcocess followed to it as a result of a exhalation. In exhalation process the diaphragm relaxes and rises and also reduces the pressure in the chest cavity and then the air is forced from the lungs.

In the Yoga practice the breath has played a vital role in making link between the mind and the body. The main purp[ose of Yoga breathing is to establish a practice for life which does not contain ratios or restrictions. You can control over your breathing system to manage your response to situations, particularly in challenging or stressful situations, and to help relaxation. You can follow these breathing practices like simple breath awareness, nostril breathing, linking breath to movement, lengthening the breath, the complete yoga breath.

There are 3 physiological phases in a complete yoga breath like:

• Diaphragmatic (abdominal)
• Thoracic (ribcage)
• Clavical (upper chest/collar bone)

You need to follow these phases in your Yoga Breathing and try to practice independently. After learning this skill or achieved, the breath needs to move in one smooth wave like in this stucture :

• Inhale – abdominal – thoracic – clavical
• Exhale – clavical – thoracic – abdominal