Modes of Breathing

1. Innately, individuals conduct different modes of breathing.

2. Below are four breathing modes:

Eupnea is a mode of breathing that is classified as normal, resting, relaxed, and silent breaths. This mode is conducted by contraction of the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles.

Costal is a mode of breathing that is classified as depthless and silent breaths (silent sort of similar to Eupnea), but is conducted by contraction of the intercostal muscles with a very slight movement of the diaphragm. Costal breathing is more prevalent during periods of anxiousness, stress, and disagreeable posture.

Diaphragmatic is a mode of breathing that is classified as deep breaths. This mode is conducted by contraction of the diaphragm. Diaphragmatic breathing may also be referred to as deep abdominal breathing in breath practice by engaging with breathing deeply into the stomach and fully involving the diaphragm. "Breathing deeply into the stomach", is not an actual occurrence, but is stated to help guide breath practice. Air isn't actually entering the stomach, yet the abdomen will have to expand outwardly to create space, so the diaphragm can flatten and move downwards to contract properly allowing in-depth breathing. During this process of practice, the stomach expands into the shape of an inflated balloon.

Hyperpnea is a mode of breathing that is classified as deeply breathing in more air than usual. Simply meaning the body is requiring and responding to the need for more oxygen. Hyperpnea breathing is more prevalent during periods of exercise, illness, and when there's involvement at high altitudes. The body requires more oxygen during cases or periods of hypomania as well.

This information is provided for general informational purposes and is not a substitute or definitive to replace physicians' care.