o_19gutb9tvriojp4s1o13fc1mena.pdf

dynamics of breathing 15
Figure 1.19 The pathway of air (in blue) into and out of the lungs.
a
b
d
c
Figure 1.20 Position and location of vocal folds: (a) relaxed position, (b) maximal opening for
forced respiration, (c) slightly opened for whispered speech (or ujjayi), (d) closed for speaking
(phonation).
When making sound and during the chanting practices of yoga, the cords are pulled
together into the phonation position (see figure 1.20d). The air pushing its way through
them vibrates, creating sound. The pitch (and to some extent the length) of the sound is
determined by how much tension is used to hold the cords together.