We are breathing the same air as our ancient yogi brothers and sisters. Can our investigations be assisted with our modern visuals.
WHAT INSPIRES US TO BREATHE?
According to the scientist sages, our need to exhale - to release the toxic build up, motivates the inhale.
What Motivates Inhalation
When the CO2 levels are too high in the blood, the respiratory center in the medulla of the brain sends a signal through the phrenic nerve (which emanates from C4 ) to the diaphragm to contract and motivate the inhale which will then stimulate an exhale.
CO2 acts as an acid and lowers the pH of the brain. The bodies responsible for the detection of CO2 are the peripheral chemoreceptors such as the carotid bodies and the central chemoreceptors (located in the brain).
Original Art by the amazing Frank H. Netter, M.D. This image is Plate 190 from the Atlas of Human Anatomy, Third Edition.
How "At Rest" Breathing Works
Breathing In
1. Diaphragm contracts and flattens.
The diaphragm only descends about 1cm then it comes to rest on the contents of the abdomen like the stomach, spleen and liver. At this point it doesn’t descend any further but instead “acts upwards” on the ribs, pulling them upwards and outwards, further increasing the volume of the chest.
2. External intercostals contract lifting and widening ribs. The external intercostals are located between the ribs and they pull the top 6 ribs outwards and upwards, while the lower six are just pulled outwards.
3. These two motions increase the thoracic cavity space.
4. This expansion of space reduces pressure in the pleural cavity (a sac that surrounds the lungs) which allows the lungs to expand.
5. As the lungs expand, there is a reduction of pressure in the pulmonary cavity relative to the atmosphere and air is drawn in towards the alveoli.
Breathing Out
1. The diaphragm relaxes and the buildup of pressure in the abdominal cavity pushes back up on the diaphragm which then reduces the thoracic cavity space and increases pressure in the pleural cavity and pulmonary cavity causing air to leave
OUR EXQUISITE BREATH
Inspiration and Expiration
Simple Respiration Lesson
The Breath and Pressure Changes
Views of the Breath
Muscles of Respiration
Original Art by the amazing Frank H. Netter, M.D. This image is Plate 191 from the Atlas of Human Anatomy, Third Edition.
Topography of Lungs
Anterior View
Original Art by the amazing Frank H. Netter, M.D. This image is Plate 192 from the Atlas of Human Anatomy, Third Edition.
Posterior View
Original Art by the amazing Frank H. Netter, M.D. This image is Plate 193 from the Atlas of Human Anatomy, Third Edition.