IN HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY. 163 



costo-superior or clavicular. In diaphragmatic respira- 

 tion, as M. Mandl has observed, the larynx is immovable, 

 the inspiration is easy, without effort, and permits exer- 

 tion in singing or in gymnastics for a long time and 

 without fatigue. On the contrary, persons who respire 

 principally by the upper ribs are easily fatigued, and very 

 soon out of breath. This is seen in women when the 

 corset compresses the base of the chest, and in singers 

 who adopt, on erroneous principles, the bad habit of 

 clavicular respiration. In this last method of inspiration 

 the larynx is drawn down by the contraction of the 

 external muscles, and its action becomes painful. The 

 effort of the inspiratory muscles rapidly induces fatigue, 

 and the inspiration, always incomplete, becomes also 

 more frequent. Diaphragmatic respiration is practised 

 by mountaineers, gymnasts, and skilful singers a habit 

 induced either by instinct, or a well-directed education. 

 Wonders of the Human Body. 



10. Why is it better to breathe through the nose than the 

 mouth ? 



The air passing through the nostrils becomes filtered 

 of its coarse impurities, and the chill is taken off before it 

 strikes against the tender, mucous surfaces of the larynx. 



1 1. Why should not a speaker talk while returning home 

 on a cold night after a lecture ? 



The cold air will strike against the vocal apparatus 

 when inflamed and peculiarly sensitive. 



12. What part of the body needs the loosest clothing ? 



The abdomen ; because of the delicate organs within, 

 unprotected by a bony covering. 



