Relaxation through Chinese Medatative Breathing

Chinese meditative breathing is often associated with practices like Qigong and Tai Chi, which are traditional Chinese exercises designed to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy, known as “Qi” or “Chi.” One common form of meditative breathing in these practices is called “Daoist abdominal breathing” or “Daoist breath.” Here’s a basic guide to get you started:

Posture: Find a comfortable and relaxed sitting or standing position. If you’re sitting, keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed.

Focus on the Breath: Begin by taking a few deep breaths to relax your body.
Focus your attention on your breath. Be mindful of the inhalation and exhalation.

Abdominal Breathing: Place your hands on your lower abdomen, just below your navel…
Inhale gently through your nose, allowing your abdomen to expand. Feel the breath filling the lower part of your lungs, pushing your abdomen outward.
Exhale slowly and completely through your nose or mouth, allowing your abdomen to contract. Imagine expelling stale air from your lungs.

Natural Rhythm: Allow your breath to find a natural, relaxed rhythm. Avoid forcing or controlling your breath too much.

Mindful Awareness: As you continue to breathe, bring your awareness to the sensations of your breath. Notice the rising and falling of your abdomen.

Relaxation: Let go of tension with each exhale. Feel a sense of relaxation spreading through your body.

Continuous Practice: Practice this breathing technique regularly. Start with shorter sessions and gradually extend the duration as you become more comfortable.
Combine with Movement:
If you’re familiar with Qigong or Tai Chi, you can integrate meditative breathing with gentle, flowing movements. The breath and movement should be coordinated.

Remember that consistency is key when it comes to meditative practices. Over time, you may experience increased relaxation, improved focus, and a sense of balance in your energy. It’s also beneficial to learn from a qualified instructor if possible, especially for more advanced techniques. Here is some relaxing music you can use to help you!