I've been a semi-professional actor (stage) for the past ten years, and by accident one day, I discovered the same thing Rifleman was talking about.  Actors use this technique to get more "lift" out of their voices, by way of the diaphragm moving in synch with the rest of the breathing system (lungs, stomach muscles and ribcage).  I was practicing breathing exercises one day before a rehearsal and got the hiccups.  Since I didn't want to take time out to sit and hold my breath or drink something, I continued breathing, and lo and behold, it worked!

By the way, Pippin:
I think most hiccup cures were invented for the amusement of the patient's friends...

One of my favorite quotes from Calvin.

I heard Ken's twice before but it was for Sax players and swimmers