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VIDEO: Standing Breathing Exercise
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Hi there, happy meditation people!
Below is a 6 minute video of me coaching you through one of the techniques
from our Learn to Meditate course.
It's a standing breathing exercise called 'the basic Chi Kung breath'.
Chi Kung is similar to Tai Chi, but with simpler movements.
This is the first technique in one style of Chi Kung, so it's ideal for beginners.
The basic Chi Kung breath has many applications, including being excellent for managing anxiety and stress. It should leave you feeling grounded but alive.
You can practice this as a preparation for meditation, or as a practice on its own.
Only do 5 - 10 minutes at a time, no longer.
If you practice it each day, even though it's such a short practice it will produce wonderful results. Give it a week or two of daily practice and see for yourself!
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Tips and Troubleshooting
I have taught this to hundreds of people and by the first few tries most people have gotten into the swing of it, but just in case you need them here are some additional pointers.
if you have a medical condition which could be aggravated (eg. recent abdominal surgery) or if it doesn't feel right for you in any way, then discontinue it.
If the stance feels awkward at first, don't worry about that. Within a week it should start feeling much more comfortable, otherwise you probably aren't doing it right.
If you have a leg injury which prevents you from standing, try practicing it whilst sitting upright on the edge of a chair.
If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, slow the breath down, and make sure you are using the belly - not just the chest.
Oh, and try to relax your shoulders as you breathe.
Enjoy!
Warm regards, Stephen.