As a singer, one must know and understand how the diaphragm works. The diaphragm moves without conscious thought. As a singer, by controlling various sections of the abdominal muscles, you can control the movement of the diaphram. Notice how the diaphragm moves up and down – down when breathing in (inhaling), up when breathing out (exhaling). This is known as the “respiratory pump.” You should breathe through your mouth (partially opened) and nose at the same time. Breathing with both allows you to draw in more air. If you breathe through the mouth only, you will cool and dry the back of the throat; but if you also use the nose it will help to filter the air and keep the back of the throat moist and warm.