CHINESE BREATH EXERCISES
A very fine, short (though not shallow) breath exercise comes from the Chinese Tai Chi Chuan. Three short inhales are done through the nose without exhaling. On the first inhale, the arms are lifted from the sides straight out in front at shoulder height. On the second, the arms are opened out straight to the sides while still at shoulder height. And on the third, the arms
are lifted straight over the head. Then, on the exhale through the mouth, the arms are moved in an arc back down to the sides. Usually, ten or twelve breaths are sufficient and will not cause light headedness. If light headedness should occur, simply stop the exercise. This exercise also has the effect of really opening up people physically. In subtle ways, this exercise uses the body in leading the mind and spirit to greater openness with each other and the environment.

I was taught breathing techniques for my asthma, don’t know what they would be called, but if the irritant is gone (like that person that passed me and blew cigerette smoke in my face) often can ease an attack with the breathing that seems like the kind used in meditation.

I do squared breathing. It helps me refocus especially in stressful situations.

I did four corner breathing. I will define tomorrow.