My first experience with the power of breath was with the Wim Hoff method, and after seeing it’s effect on me, I’ve been experimenting with more.
There’s different kinds of meditation, and the ones that I was attracted to initially were the more physical kind. Cycling, running, swimming, swinging kettlebells, clubs or canes.
Being physically still, to calm the mind didn’t really work for me in the initial stages. I knew I needed it to balance out my nature, but I just couldn’t figure out how to do it.
Focusing on the breath was the easiest way. And after getting used to it while exercising, I started trying to stand, sit and lie still while being mindful of breath.
It helps having an auditory cue while you’re practicing. This post has to share the one I’m using currently. Each chant lasts around 11 seconds. The total session lasts 12 minutes.
https://open.spotify.com/track/1sKvfBXlhbjjMaV2JhuFq3?si=UGeFav0MRKmudZu6RBcLmQ&utm_source=copy-link&dl_branch=1
1. Inhale on the aarohanam. Exhale on the avarohanam.
2. Nasal breaths only
3. Breaths should move your abdomen only
4. No movement at the chest
5. Imagine taking breaths so small that the hairs inside your nostrils are not disturbed.
6. Pauses are minimised. Breath moves throughout, just the direction reversal of breath is smooth, without jerking
7. Volume of breath is minimum
8. If you breathe too much or breathe too little in terms of volume, you’ll feel it like an effort. If you’re doing it right, you should be feel like you can do it for hours.
This results is 5-6 breaths per minute and is a useful reset that takes 12 minutes if you feel things spinning out of control. All you need is your phone, headphones and a place to sit.
I use it
1. Most mornings
2. After hard workouts when I know I’ve pushed too hard for my own good
3. While sun gazing
4. Sometimes before going to bed
What I’ve found
I can now laugh at stuff instead of raging about it. I can catch myself before losing control, better.
I recover faster from my masochistic workouts.
I’m sleeping better.
This is now the most played song on my Spotify list.
Why did I choose this one?
I found it after searching for Tibetan chants. There were many, but I like this one the best.
If you’re using any tracks, please post in the comments. Or if you’ve got recommendations for modification in my own practice, please let me know.