B reathing is an autonomous and involuntary act. The medulla oblongata which is situated in the brainstem controls and regulates the breathing. The brainstem is our survival brain also known as the reptilian brain. As per evolutionary science, the survival brain is our oldest brain. Even when we are not aware, the process of breathing continues without any hitch. This respiratory function is not under our conscious control. Studies have found that when breathing is conscious, it enhances the overall brain health, specifically of the cerebral cortex. The cerebral cortex is the human and rational brain. It is the seat of reasoning, decision making and logical thinking. Neuroscientific studies have found that it is the latest brain. In between the cerebral cortex and the reptilian brain, there exists the mammal brain which is our limbic system or the centre of our emotions. Scientific research has found that a strong cerebral cortex regulates our emotions and ensures the control of intellect over emotions. When we are aware of our breath, the breath becomes slow, deep and rhythmic.

 

This type of breath is called diaphragmatic or Yogic breathing. Both Yoga and the science of breath recommend this type of breath. Yoga propounds that there is a direct connection between breath and the brain. Neuroscientific studies have also confirmed this finding. It is found that fast and unregulated breath activates the amygdala, the seat of stress and fear. Unsteady breath stimulates the limbic system and one is overwhelmed by emotions. This is also called limbic hijack where the intellect does not work properly. On the other hand, rhythmic and regulated breathing activates our cerebral cortex which is the seat of our rational and logical mind. It is also found in the studies that deep conscious breathing generates alpha and theta waves in the brain. As a result, the brain becomes relaxed and still remains alert. Experiments have discovered that conscious deep breathing is a great stress buster.

 

Such breathing lowers down stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. As a result the brain becomes more focused and attentive. During conscious breathing more oxygen is supplied to the brain. This improves the function of the brain and the brain is able to form more neural pathways. Thus neuroplasticity of the brain improves and the rational brain becomes stronger. Deep, rhythmic and steady breath is very conducive to the relaxation of the nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system which is called the centre of rest and digest also becomes more active. There is better emotional regulation and the brain becomes more responsive and reflective rather than reactive and impulsive. In recent times breathing exercises have been adopted very effectively to address the issues of anxiety, stress , trauma etc. But thousands of years ago, the science of breath was discovered, developed and experimented in the Indian subcontinent.

 

The full fledged science is known as the Pranayama and forms part of the larger Yogic system. There are numerous types of Pranayamas which generate different types of psychophysical impact. Some of them activate parasympathetic nervous system and reduces stress, while others are effective in boosting the sympathetic nervous system to counter depressive moods. This ancient wisdom has got echo in the discovery of modern science. The overall impact of conscious breathing is the mental resilience associated with the better functioning of our rational brain.