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Writer's pictureSarah-Jeanne Baron

The scientific importance of yogic breath and "Om" chanting

Breathing is recognized as one of the most straightforward ways to improve general health.

Diaphragm anatomy

The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for breathing.

It sits in the torso and is dome-shaped, and it separates the abdominal cavity from the lungs.

It comprises three attachments: one at the level of the ribs, one on the sternum, and one on the lumbar vertebrae.

It is also connected to the vocal cords and the pelvic floor through fasciae (types of tissue that connect every cell, organ, and muscle in the body).

These three elements move together during breathing. We call them the three diaphragms: throat, diaphragm, and pelvic floor.


Yogic breathing is predominantly abdominal breathing, in which the diaphragm is recruited to its full potential. When used correctly, the diaphragm enables the vagal nerve activation, which influences autonomic functions in the body, including regulating the stress response.


Three diaphragms of the human body

The sound "Om" in yoga is known to contain all the sounds and frequencies of the Universe.

Since it is composed of 3 sounds melted into one another, the "Om" chanting involves the complete recruitment of the three diaphragms.

The sound "Ahhh" recruits the pelvic floor and the lower abdominals, the sound "Oooh" resonates at the level of the torso and the throat, and the sound "mmmm" resonates in the sinuses and the skull.



When one practices yogic breathing and "Om" chanting regularly, he can sustainably decrease his general stress level and quality of life. This type of breathing is also recognized as having a beneficial role in hormonal regulation, mental health, thought and attention, cardiopulmonary function, cardiovascular function, pain management, and blood circulation.


To be further guided in the practice of yogic breathing and various other breathing exercises, feel free to participate in our online yoga classes tailored to your needs.

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