The diaphragm is the main muscle of respiration — a dome-shaped sheet that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdomen.¹ It contracts and relaxes with each breath, and its health is intimately linked to the vagus nerve and parasympathetic system.
Functions
- •Breathing — primary driver of inhalation
- •Pressure regulation — creates pressure gradient for venous return
- •Core stability — part of the inner unit
- •Vagal stimulation — mechanical massage of the vagus nerve with each breath²
In ONDA Life
"Diaphragmatic Release" in Part 1 aims to release spasms in this muscle. Chronic stress and shallow breathing can cause diaphragmatic holding patterns that restrict the vagus nerve and prevent deep parasympathetic recovery.
References
- •Lehrer et al., Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback (2000) — diaphragmatic breathing and HRV
- •Thayer & Lane, Neurosci Biobehav Rev (2009) — vagal tone and respiration