Adhi Mudra is a hand motion that sends a reflexogenic signal to the brain's respiratory center, which regulates inspiration and expiration into the clavicular lobes, or top lobes of the lungs.
- A clenched fist with the thumbs on the inside touching the palm is the Mudra.
- The fingers of the hands arced down on the upper legs, near to the torso.
- The respiratory center is a motor center in the brain, directing efferent nerve impulses for bodily movement.
- Inspiration is controlled by one side of the respiratory center, while expiration is controlled by the other.
The brain sends signals to the lungs, which the lungs respond to. Reflex nerves embedded in the tissues of the lungs transmit back to the brain when the lungs are profoundly inflated or almost deflated, speeding or slowing down breathing and providing conscious control over what is otherwise an autonomic function.
The only autonomic function of the body that can be overridden by voluntary, conscious will is breathing.
As a result, Pranayama is essential for Yogic regulation of the body, its functions, emotions, and the lower mind's memory store at the base of the brain.
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You may also want to read more about Yoga Asanas and Exercises here.
