Oxygen. The most abundant element in the human body. The human body consists of roughly 60% H2O (hydrogen and oxygen.) The most utilized source of energy (a quantized transference of force) is glucose (C6H12O6) or in other words, Carbon, Hydrogen and Oxygen.
Within the physical body oxygen acts as the most significant electron acceptor and a catalyst for virtually every chemical reaction in the body.
A visual depiction of that process can be seen in the link below.
The process of Aerobic cellular respiration, characteristic of Eykaryotic cells, produces ATP (the energy currency of cells) only once sufficient oxygen levels are met.
When we inhale oxygen into our lungs it immediately enters the bloodstream via the alveoli. The pulmonary veins then transports the oxygen-rich blood to the the bodies cells via the protein Hemoglobin.
Heme, an iron-containing metalloid and the most important component to hemoglobin, is what binds the oxygen molecule to hemoglobin. Heme is responsible for the red color when a piece of metal rusts, the dirt on the planet Mars and blood.
The unique properties of heme have even found there way into the food industry through the development of sophisticatedly-modified synthetic meat alternatives.
It is important to note that non-heme iron (iron from plant sources) can be made bio-available with the addition of vitamin C. Examples include Cacao and Camu Camu, or Spinach and Lemon. The relationship between vitamin C and iron is well documented mainly due to vitamin C’s role as a reducing agent, in the case of iron Fe3 – Fe2.
http://dergiler.ankara.edu.tr/dergiler/24/1716/18327.pdf
This elaborate bio-chemical process occurs with every inhalation of oxygen and is recycled and regenerated with every exhale carbon dioxide.
A process that is largely subconscious.
Conscious breathing exercises such as Nadi Shodhana or, alternate nostril breathing, is an ancient form of Ayurvedic medicine said to have the extraordinary effect of balancing both the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
The technical application of proper breath work can help clear two major Nadi channels the Ida and the Pingala and help in purifying the bioplasma body.
Ida and the Pingala
The visual depiction of the Ida and Pingala can be seen in various ways expressed through ancient works of art, occult symbolism and the construct of human DNA.
Proper breath work can do wonders for an individual’s overall health and well being as the transportation of oxygen throughout the physical body is a very important component for the cleansing of impurities.
In music, Opera virtuosos utilizes advanced breathing techniques to convey some of humanities most profound musical moments.
The importance of breath must never to be lost on us as individuals. Oxygen is the life force which flows through everyone of us.
It is important to do the best you can to acknowledge each breath as doing so strongly aligns your physical and mental body to the immediate moment constituting a myriad of macro and micro events.
All begins and began with breath so remember to find a quiet moment to relax your mind and simply breathe, it will do wonders for clearing your complex web of thoughts and physical body.
-B
“The kundalini is sleeping, closing the door of the Sushumana. She sleeps above the Kanda or where the Nadis unite. She gives liberation to the Yogi and bondage to fools. He who knows her knows Yoga.” – The Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā
