Meeting Our Basic Needs: Air
Dr. Vranich, psychologist and breathing expert, gives an excellent presentation on how to breathe anatomically efficiently. Breathing is regulated by a structure in the brain called the pons. Our breathing pattern is a subconsious program that is natural or learned as a result of different experiences and instructions given in our life. A person at ease without outside instruction will naturally breathe correctly.
Chemical changes in our blood happen when we breathe in and out. The pons recognizes the changes in the blood and can send a message to the diaphragm to contract, pulling air into our lungs, when we need more oxygen. The exhale is a result of the diaphragm relaxing. This happens multiple times per minute.
One thing I would add to this video is to breathe in and out through the nose. The nasal passages naturally moisturize the air making it more suitable for our lungs. It also allows the air to enter our lungs at the correct pressure. The increased pressure creates a turbulence that carries nitric oxide into the lungs. Nitric oxide is a free radical and a vasodilator. It effects the health of our blood vessels, increasing blood flow and decreasing blood pressure which will improve many other health conditions.
If you are feeling unwell for any reason, pay attention to your breathing pattern. If you recognize that you might be breathing vertically, as mentioned in the video, your cells may not be getting the adequate amount of oxygen to heal.
References
2019. Alila Medical Media. “Control of Ventilation” https://youtu.be/KITa-HNpJgU?si=zwBNAZiiZ-vrcBsj
1999. Lundberg, JON. “Nasal Nitric Oxide in Man” BMJ Journals
