What is diaphragmatic breathing and why does it matter?

On inhalation the diaphragm descends and expands the chest cavity. That movement pushes the abdomen gently outward; abdominal movement is visible in correct breathing.

At the same time the ribs open laterally. In a healthy breath both the abdomen and the side ribs move; the chest merely rising is not enough.

The diaphragm also contributes to trunk stability. By regulating intra-abdominal pressure it supports the spine, which is why there is a direct relationship between breathing and back health.

When the diaphragm does not descend adequately, breathing shifts to the upper chest. In that pattern the shoulders rise slightly with each breath and the neck muscles engage.

Neck muscles fatigue quickly when drawn into a movement repeated around twenty thousand times a day. This is a frequently missed cause of chronic tension in the neck and over the shoulders.

Upper chest breathing is also shallower. Respiratory rate rises to take in the same volume of air, creating a loop that reinforces the sense of tension.

Lying supine, one hand is placed on the chest and one on the abdomen. In normal breathing the hand on the abdomen should move more than the one on the chest.

Hands on the side ribs check for expansion. Ribs failing to open laterally is a common and correctable restriction.

Respiratory rate is counted. Twelve to sixteen breaths a minute at rest is normal; a markedly higher rate suggests a shallow breathing pattern.