RESPIRATORY TRACK

CLAVICULAR

Clavicular breathing primarily involves the uppermost part of the chest, near the clavicles (collarbone). During inhalation, the shoulders rise, and there’s visible movement in the upper chest, the arms and shoulder blades rise, then the abdomen is pulled in; which known as paradoxical breathing. The use of the diaphragm is minimal.

Clavicular breathing primarily relies on the use of the accessory muscles of the neck and shoulders. This shallow breathing pattern can lead to muscle tension. It expresses and contributes to feelings of STRESS or ANXIETY.

UPPER CHEST BREATHING

Upper chest breathing, refers to a shallow breathing pattern where the primary movement occurs in the upper chest and shoulders. The inhalation is characterized by the elevation of the shoulders and visible movement of the chest, while the abdomen remains relatively still. The use of the diaphragm is minimal. This type of breathing primarily involves the use of the accessory muscles of the neck and shoulders. Upper chest breathing is often associated with stress, anxiety, or a state of heightened arousal.

BELLY BREATHING

During inhalation, the abdomen protrudes outward, and during exhalation, it falls back. The chest does not move. The work of the abdominal cavity during the breathing process serves as a specific massage for the internal organs and has a beneficial effect on digestive processes.

Practiced intentionally it promotes relaxation.

DIAPHRAGMATIC-LOWER-RIB BREATHING

It involves the active engagement of the diaphragm muscle. The inhalation is initiated by the contraction and downward movement of the diaphragm muscle, synchronized with the pelvic floor muscles. The inhalation begins in the pelvic area, and gradually moves upward, filling the abdominal cavity and expanding the lower ribs in all directions. This causes the abdomen to expand outward, allowing the lungs to fill with air. Diaphragmatic breathing involves minimal movement in the chest and shoulders.

Slow breathing using the diaphragmatic-lower-rib technique activates the VAGUS NERVE, the primary cranial nerve, which initiates a relaxation response in the body. It allows for deeper inhalation and complete exhalation, This is the correct and optimal way of breathing.

THE FULL | YOGIC BREATHING

The inhalation follows the pattern of the diaphragmatic- lower rib technique, It involves the active engagement of the diaphragm muscle. The inhalation is initiated by the contraction and downward movement of the diaphragm muscle, synchronized with the pelvic floor muscles. The inspiration begins in the pelvic area, and gradually moves upward, filling the abdominal cavity and expanding the lower ribs in all directions. This causes the abdomen to expand outward, allowing the lungs to fill with air. Towards the end of the inhalation, the upper areas of the chest expand, and the arms and shoulder blades rise.

This type of breathing is intentionally practiced in certain yoga exercises.