This image gives you an idea of how much the diaphragm and pelvic floor move in relation to each other. The solid lines show how they rise together on the exhale. The striated lines show how they lower together on the inhale. Can you visualize a piston like motion moving up and down? The rhythm of the diaphragm and pelvic floor keeps the gut and viscera moving every moment of the day. They squeeze, compress and release the organs of their contents constantly. This movement halts stagnation and is crucial for elimination.

In the next post we’ll look at how much the rib cage moves with each and every breath.