Breathing Exercise

Ch'i Gong is breath work. One of the best ways to relax and relieve the stress in our bodies is by breathing. Studies have found that by reducing our breath to six breaths per minute or less, our stress levels are greatly reduced. Here is a little relaxation breath exercise to begin to help you breathe more easily.

The breathing for this exercise is going to be done from the belly not from the chest. When you inhale (through your nose) you want the belly to expand. When you exhale (through your mouth) you want the belly to contract. The count ratio of inhaling, holding, and exhaling is 4:7:8. Inhale to a count of 4. Hold your breath for a count of 7. Exhale to a count of 8. The length of the count is up to you.

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Sit comfortably in a chair.

Put your hands over your belly (the lower Dantien - three or four finger widths below the navel). Let the shoulders relax by dropping the elbows.

Let the tip of your tongue touch the roof of your mouth - just behind the teeth.

Notice how you feel before you start.

1) Inhale through your nose (letting the belly expand) to a count of 4
2) Hold your breath to a count of 7.
3) Exhale through your mouth (letting the belly contract) to a count of 8.

1) Inhale 1...2...3...4
2) Hold 1...2...3...4...5...6...7
3) Exhale 1...2...3...4...5...6...7...8

Do minimum 3 times, maximum 7 times per sitting.

Notice how you feel after you finish. Enjoy!

*This is not to be used in place of medical care. If you suspect your stress levels are too high, it is recommended that you consult a physician.

© 2002, Curtis Fuller