the.com/constriction
The slow squeeze that turns roomy into rationed, breath into bargaining.
means The act of making something narrower or tighter, restricting flow, movement, or freedom.
from From Latin constringere, to bind tightly, from con- (together) plus stringere (to draw tight) — the same root straining inside strict and stress.
Snake strategyBoas kill by squeezing off blood flow, not air.
Medical senseConstricted blood vessels raise pressure, pinch circulation.
Throat feelingStress literally tightens the throat, hence choked up.