This time we will talk about intercostal breathing, the one in which we expand the rib cage to increase our lung capacity.
Conscious breathing is a vital part of our life.
It is not only present in the practice of yoga and pilates; Athletes, swimmers and singers breathe in a conscious way with the aim of having better performance.
Intercostal breathing is that pranayama technique in which we use the intercostal muscles.
It has a very precise technique and once you learn it, it will be very easy for you to practice it and get all its benefits.
What is the diaphragm?
The muscles involved in thoracic breathing are the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.
The diaphragm is a large muscle located under the rib cage, between the lungs and abdominal organs.
The intercostal muscles support the rib cage. They are considered accessory respiratory muscles involved in the process of intercostal breathing.
How to do intercostal breathing
- Sit with your back straight and relaxed, or lie down.
- Put your hands on the ribs on the sides, and your middle fingers touching each other.
- Inhale slowly through your nose and bring air to your middle chest and sides.
- You feel the ribs expand sideways (fingers should separate when inhaling and come back together when exhaling).
- Exhale slowly through your nose at about the same time as the inhalation.
Benefits of Intercostal Breathing.
- Purifies and perfects the respiratory system.
- Expands lung capacity
- Widen the rib cage.
- Prevents respiratory disorders.
Remember to check my video on Youtube, where I explain this breath in greater detail.
To read more, check here:
Akashic Records practitioner, Reiki Master, Yoga Teacher, Health coach, energy clearing, lightworker.
