rintakehähengityksessä

Rintakehähengitys, also known as thoracic breathing or chest breathing, is a type of respiration where the chest expands and contracts significantly during inhalation and exhalation. This contrasts with diaphragmatic breathing, or abdominal breathing, where the primary movement involves the diaphragm muscle. In rintakehähengitys, the intercostal muscles located between the ribs play a more prominent role, lifting and lowering the rib cage. This action increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, drawing air into the lungs. While it is a natural and common breathing pattern, it is often perceived as less efficient than diaphragmatic breathing. Increased muscle tension in the neck and shoulders can sometimes accompany rintakehähengitys. It is often observed in situations of stress or anxiety, and some breathing exercises aim to encourage a shift towards more diaphragmatic breathing for perceived benefits like relaxation and improved oxygenation. Understanding the mechanics of rintakehähengitys is important in fields such as respiratory therapy and somatic education.