10/18/2019
Da Vinci, the diaphragm and students of the internal arts!
Given the sacredness of prana in yoga, the diaphragm could be thought of as a living breathing Alter.
In the Yogic discipline of deep breathing, the diaphragm is one of the prime movers and regulators of the life force we call prana due to its predominant location in the body.
Take a good look at this extraordinary sepia drawing of the diaphragm by Leonardo da Vinci, this detailed drawing with two views is more revealing than the slick over graphic modern textbook and training images we see today - I love them!
Rendered almost as a delicate flower or protective umbrella you can clearly see the two casings, the inner dome, the delicate edges and endless vessels and nerves or what the yogi’ might even refer to as nadi’s embracing the totality of this elegant structure!
Notice also da Vinci’s fine spun renderings of the spinal vertebrae and the locations of the supporting lumbodorsal junctures at T12 –L1 creating a symbiotic bond with the spine and surrounding vital organs.
Through the controlled rhythm of the yogic breath this dynamic diaphragmatic pump with it’s expansion and contraction motion can organize the respiratory system and bodily organs giving positive repercussions and sustainable bodily health.
If you’d like to see and learn more about this magnificent bodily conductor hop on over to my website blog: http://www.pamjohnsonyoga.com/blog