We all know that breathing is the key to life; if we cannot breathe, we will die. Most people do not know how to breathe correctly. We associate breathing with the lungs, which is partly true. The lungs are paired, cone-shaped organs located in the thoracic cavity. They are separated by the heart and by the pleural membrane that encloses each lung. They are also separated from the abdominal cavity by the diaphragm.
Abdominal breathing is an ancient method used by Taoist and martial artists to detoxify the lungs. I was taught this many years ago by my teacher, Grand Master Leon Wallace, while studying Goju karate under him. His favorite Kata and what became my favorite was Sanchin, also known as the breathing Kata.
The Sanchin Kata was developed over 100 years ago by the founder of the Goju (hard/soft) Karate system, Miyage Chojun, as an exercise to develop breathing, thrusting, and footwork. Grand Master Wallace would always say Sanchin will make you strong and keep you healthy; it took me many years to truly understand his wisdom
Abdominal breathing is when you bring air through your nose to expand the abdominal area, not the diaphragm (a common mistake that people make when taking a deep breath). When exhaling, we push the abdominal area as far back as possible. This method allows the lungs to expel used air, carbon dioxide, and other toxins. When learning to meditate, abdominal breathing is very important; it helps relax the mind.
When you were in your mother’s womb, you used abdominal breathing to receive and expel nutritional fluids produced by your mother. That is why many Taoists call abdominal breathing baby breathing. During Taoist organ massage treatments like Chunsoo (Korea) and Chi Nei Tsang (Chinese), practitioners have their patients use deep abdominal breathing while manipulating the rib cage during the inhalation and exhalation phases. Taoist master Mantak Chia describes this lung detox method in his excellent book Chi Nei Tsang: Internal Organs Chi Massage.
For the past few weeks, the New York City air has not been healthy to breathe, especially for older individuals and people with respiratory issues. This is why knowing how to breathe correctly is so important.
If you are interested in learning more about the Taoist method of breathing correctly for improving and maintaining strong, healthy lungs, call or text 917 821-7099 to schedule an appointment. Remember, now more than ever, learning to breathe correctly can improve the quality of your life.
Based on reporting by Harlem Community Newspapers.
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