Mahat Pranayama is the foundation of other yogic breathing practices. It teaches us to use the diaphragm to breathe completely and correctly to all 3 sections of the lungs. Once we learn to breathe fluidly to the low, mid and high sections of the lungs, we then direct the flow of the breath from the bottom of the lungs to the top. By using our diaphragm, we support the muscles of respiration, optimize our lung function and increase the oxygen to positively influence all the systems of our body. On the emotional level, the diaphragm acts as both a shield and bridge between unconscious and conscious emotions. It can prevent emotions in the lower abdomen from overflowing into the heart and consciousness. The subtle body intention of this breathing practice is to connect to emotions; imagine them being pushed out of the chest.