About Pranayama
Breath passes through the Respiratory System, delivering the oxygen into our bloodstream and releasing toxins and carbon dioxide. Our simple breath vitalizes the body, keeps the mind alert and prana strong. Let's take a deeper look at how the act of breathing becomes prana-yama... Nose and Mouth Air is filtered through the mouth and nose. Breathing through the nose regulates our bodily functions, though the mouth is used when higher oxygen levels are called for. During yoga practice, we use nostril breathing techniques. Pharynx and Larynx Just behind the nose and mouth lies the pharynx, belonging to part of the Respiratory and Digestive Systems. Our tonsils are part of the pharynx wich help direct air and food individually. At the end of the pharynx lies the esophagus and larynx, or voice box housing the anatomy of sound. The epiglottis, which is cartilage, lies at the top of the larynx to close it from food or liquid. Trachea and Bronchi The part of our anatomy in which gas, or breath, is transported is the trachea, or windpipe. This powerful tube works by pushing particles away and is also filled with cartilage rings for structural support. The end of the trachea splits into bronchi (two tubes) where gas exchange can happen. The bronchi lead to thin bronchioles which have alveoli, or air sacs, to begin utilizing oxygen. Lungs and Thorax The lungs transfer oxygen to the bloodstream and release carbon dioxide from the body. They are comprised of bronchioles, alveoli, elastic tissue to help expansion, and blood vessels and capillaries to carry the oxygen. The thoracic cavity is protected by the rib cage and sternum, or breastbone. This area is found from the neck to the back and houses the heart and lungs.
It is essential to maintain a healthy Respiratory System, which is the base of our livelihood and physical and mental well-being. | 
