By
Raeghan Siemens
Our
breath flows through our bodies bringing a life sustaining force and with
each exhale eliminates toxins. This constant dynamic exchange with the
universe, nourishes and protects us. In deep breathing, exhalation is
as important as inhalation because it eliminates toxins. The lower part of the
lungs are insufficiently emptied, and tend to accumulate air saturated with
carbon dioxide. When the lower part of the lungs are properly expanded and
contracted, the liver and spleen are massaged by the diaphragm increasing the
circulation of these organs.
How
to deeply breathe...
Inhale
1.
Push the stomach forward as you breathe in
2.
Push the ribs side sideways while still breathing in. The stomach will
automatically go inwards slightly.
3.
Lift the chest and collar bone up while still breathing in.
This
process should be done in a smooth continuous rhythm.
Pause
Short
or long, a pause should occur at the end of inhalation. This should not be
forced at first, though deliberate experiments with extending this pause play
an important part in successful breathing practice.
Exhale
1.
Allow the collar bone, chest and ribs to relax-the air will go out
automatically
2.
When all the air seems to be out, push the stomach in slightly to expel any
remaining air in the lungs
Pause
A
short or long pause, should occur at the end of exhalation. This too should not
be forced at first, though this pause may prove to be even more significant
than the first as a stage in which to seek and find a kind of spiritual
quiescence that can be most powerful in its relaxing effects
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