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Breathing, also known as respiration, is the biological process of taking in oxygen from the environment and expelling carbon dioxide from the body. The respiratory system, consisting of the nasal or oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli, facilitates the exchange of gases. Air enters through the nose or mouth, travels down the trachea, and is distributed in the lungs where alveolar membranes allow oxygen to diffuse into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide to move into the alveolar space for exhalation.

The mechanics of breathing involve two primary phases: inhalation (inspiration) and exhalation (expiration). During inspiration, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward while the intercostal muscles expand the rib cage. This produces negative pressure in the lungs, drawing air in. Expiration is mostly a passive process, relying on the relaxation of the diaphragm and rib cage to push air out, but active expiration can occur in forceful breathing or during strenuous activity, when the abdominal and abdominal wall muscles contract.

Pneumostasis, the regulation of breathing rate and depth, is controlled by the medulla oblongata in response to levels of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and blood pH. This neural regulation is supplemented by chemoreceptors located in the carotid and aortic bodies.

Breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or paced respiration, are employed in various health interventions to reduce stress, improve oxygenation, and influence autonomic nervous system activity. Conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary edema arise when the normal gas exchange process is disrupted, often requiring medical treatment and therapeutic strategies to restore effective respiration.