How does the nose breathe with only one nostril at a time?

Question

In humans, one nostril breathes while the other rests. What process controls this? Does one nostril breathe more than another?

Answer 1

This is called as ANULOMA VILOMA--alternate nostril breathing. This is a yogic breathing. The benefit for this is that it will strengthen the whole respiratory system and rids the body of toxins that have built up through stress and pollution. Try to practice alternate nostril breathing everyday.

1. Sit cross-legged on the floor with eyes closed

2. Close the right nostril with the right thumb and, slowly and smoothly, exhale through the left nostril for a count of four.

3.Continuing to keep the  right nostril closed, inhale through the left nostril, again slowly and smoothly for a count of four. Stay centerd and breathe slowly and deeply.

4. Close your left nostril with the third or ring finger of your right hand. Turn the first tow fingers inward to touch the base of the thumb.

5. Continuing to keep both of your nostrils closed, retain your breath in your lungs for as long as you possibly can.

6. Release the right nostril and exhale slowly with control to a count of four

7. Inhale through the right nostril use the thumb to close it hold for a count of four, then exhale through the left nostril. This comletes one round of alternate nostril breathing. Repeat this exercise 10 times.

Answer 2

this process is called peristalsis

Answer 3

One nostril does not breathe while the other one "rests" ...

One nostril will breathe more than the other ONLY when one is obstructed ....

Answer 4

A Myth, BTW, the Above is Wrong.

Answer 5

the nostril is only a passage way for it to come out of if you had no nostril then it would come out of your mouth .you dont have to have nostrils to breath.