Multidirectional Expansion

A better-maintained zone of apposition helps the diaphragm ascend fully during exhalation and descend from a better starting position during inhalation. After the lower ribs are dropped, the next inhalation should expand the upper thorax and abdominal-pelvic region circumferentially. Dropping the lower ribs increases the zone of apposition between the diaphragm and ribcage. Multidirectional expansion begins with a full exhalation that drops the lower ribs. The preferred breathing target is multidirectional expansion rather than pushing the belly forward.