Inhalation
1. The least understood part of breathing is inhalation. Most people take only very shallow breaths that only use the top half of their lungs, leaving stale air in the lower half that does not provide essential oxygen to the body or excrete harmful waste-products. These shallow breaths usually originate in the sinuses; they cause the abdomen to move inward and the shoulders to lift. But correct, natural breathing is precisely the opposite. Inhalation is properly the function of the diaphragm, a band of muscle beneath the lungs. When the diaphragm moves downward, the air pressure in the lungs decreases, which causes air to rush in. The ribs expand outward, but the chest remains passive.

Exhalation
2. There should also be no strain in proper exhalation. It is, after all, as simple as just relaxing. Allowing the weight of the collar bone and ribs to reduce the size of the lungs will cause the air to naturally move outward to the lower pressure outside. The diaphragm also moves upward into its original position during exhalation, further decreasing the size of the lung cavity and increasing the air pressure inside the lungs. Complete exhalation is an important part of proper breathing, but it should not be necessary to force air out to achieve this.

Learning to Breathe
3. One of the reasons why breathing and meditation are so closely associated is because learning how to breathe property requires focused attention and awareness. One of the best ways to become aware of your breathing is to lie flat on your back with your arms down at your side and your feet relaxed. Gradually become aware of the rate of your breath and the movements of your abdomen. There should be a gentle rise in your belly as you inhale, and your chest cavity should expand outward. During exhalation, the stomach should move back lower, and the ribs should contract. If necessary, put a book on your navel to help you see the motion. When practicing, breathe as deeply and slowly as possible without straining. Proper breathing should be easy.

http://www.ehow.com/way_5406304_proper-way-breathe.html?ref=fuel&utm_source=yahoo&utm_medium=ssp&utm_campaign=yssp_art

blue-y wrote:

is this scientifically proved?