Understanding the Physiology of Breath and Breathing

Biomechanics and their link to anatomy are only one aspect of the complex equation that is respiration. Biochemical processes are equally important, and are already acknowledged in ancient yogic texts emphasizing breathing patterns and practices (i.e., pranayama) that optimize breath biochemistry, such as subtle breathing, tailored breath retention and suspension, four-part breathing, and others. Biochemically, respiration happens at multiple levels, including external, internal, cellular, and mitochondrial. Gas exchange at the alveolar level is known as external respiration; gas exchange at the tissue level is internal respiration. These two distinct aspects of breathing are crucial to understanding and teaching healthful breathing that supports balanced biochemistry, lasting vitality, a resilient nervous system, and a composed and stable mind. External and internal respiration can come under conscious control (external more so than internal) and are key to therapeutic breathwork that is individually tailored. This chapter elucidates both external and internal respiration, providing healthcare professionals and breathing coaches with information for optimizing breath and breathing, especially for individuals whose suffering can be ameliorated through creating and maintaining breath patterns that are biochemically wholesome and healing.