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Breath and Body Wisdom: Pranayama Meets Pulmonary

Categories: Anatomy & Physiology
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About Course

This course bridges the ancient wisdom of yogic breathwork (pranayama) with modern pulmonary science. Through an exploration of respiratory anatomy, physiology, and practical breath techniques, yoga teachers and wellness professionals will deepen their understanding of how the breath influences the body, brain, and energy systems. This integration supports a more conscious, safe, and therapeutic application of pranayama in both personal and teaching practices.

What Will You Learn?

  • Breath and Body Wisdom
  • • Study the anatomy and physiology of breathing and its effects on posture and movement.
  • • Use targeted breath techniques to influence energy, focus, and relaxation.

Course Content

: Breath Basics — Anatomy of the Lungs, Diaphragm, and Respiratory Pathways
To fully appreciate the depth of pranayama, we begin with a grounded understanding of the respiratory system. This module explores the anatomy and physiology of breathing, including the lungs, diaphragm, and key respiratory pathways. By understanding the mechanics of inhalation and exhalation, as well as the science of gas exchange, yoga teachers and wellness practitioners can make more informed, safe, and practical choices in their breathwork practices.

  • Lesson 1: Structure and Function of the Respiratory System
  • Lesson 2: The Mechanics of Inhalation and Exhalation
  • Lesson 3: Tidal Volume, Lung Capacity, and Gas Exchange

Nervous System Meets the Breath — Parasympathetic Activation and Vagal Tone
The breath is a powerful gateway into the nervous system. In this module, we examine how breathing patterns impact the autonomic nervous system, with a particular focus on the vagus nerve and its role in regulating stress and promoting balance. By understanding the physiological impact of breath, yoga teachers and practitioners can offer practices that support resilience, healing, and mental clarity.

Yogic Breathing — Foundations of Pranayama
In this module, we explore the origins of pranayama as both a scientific discipline and a spiritual practice. Understanding the philosophical and historical origins of breath control in yoga lays the groundwork for effective and safe instruction. We will also explore key types of pranayama and how the bandhas (energetic locks) interrelate with breath, energy movement, and subtle awareness.

Breath Dysfunction and Re-education
While breath is natural, it is also profoundly influenced by habit, trauma, posture, and stress. In this module, we explore what happens when breathing patterns become dysfunctional—and how to re-educate the breath using both yogic and clinical respiratory tools. Functional breathing is characterized by being rhythmic, silent, nasal, diaphragmatic, and appropriately responsive to the body's needs. Dysfunctional breathing often leads to physical, emotional, and mental imbalances. This module helps us recognize these signs and guide others back to breath as a source of vitality and ease.

Breath Integration — Designing Classes and Practices with Breath Focus
In this final module, we bring together the physiological and philosophical teachings of breath into practical application. Breath-centered teaching supports not only physical health but emotional resilience, nervous system regulation, and spiritual presence. This module equips teachers with strategies to sequence intelligently, teach breathwork safely, and draw from real-world examples to inspire their practices and classes.

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