Breathwork and Self-Mastery
Breath is more than just air moving in and out of our lungs; it is the foundation of energy, awareness, and life itself. In this practice, we explore the depth of breathwork, using focused intention and movement to unlock the power within us. The goal is not to force or control, but to align with the natural rhythms of our body, guiding our energy (chi) through breath and awareness.
Foundation of Breath Awareness
Begin by lifting your face slightly. Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth and wear a gentle, half-smile. Close your eyes if comfortable, or maintain a soft gaze, looking outward without focusing on any particular point. This allows your awareness to expand, perceiving everything without fixation.
As you inhale, direct your mind to the center of your body. Breathe in fully, filling your lower abdomen first, then your middle, and finally your upper chest. Exhale slowly, controlling the breath through measured “bells” of time. Hold the exhalation briefly, feeling the emptiness before the next breath naturally flows in.
Mindfulness is key. The mind will wander—it wants to escape—but bring it back to your center each time. Some days, holding the breath feels effortless, while other days it may feel impossible. Neither is right or wrong. There is no good or bad; there is only presence.
The Power of Breath Cycles
Engage in breath cycles:
Inhale fully, exhale completely.
Three short breaths in, three short breaths out.
Hold the breath, compressing energy within.
Smile gently, keeping the tongue pressed up, allowing breath to transform into life force.
Breathwork is about alchemy—taking oxygen and turning it into chi, the currency of vitality. Like coal compressing into a diamond, we refine our energy with each breath.
Physical Movement and Energy Flow
Breath is not isolated from movement. Begin standing, bouncing lightly on your heels to shake the nine gates of the body. This activates circulation, pumping blood and chi from the toes to the fingertips. Inhale deeply as you stretch upward, pressing through the fingers. Exhale as you ground yourself back into the earth.
Tap gently on your lungs and kidneys, acknowledging the energy held there—grief in the lungs, fear in the kidneys. By breathing deeply and moving intentionally, we release these stored emotions, clearing space for renewed vitality.
Move through elemental phases:
Forward (wood)
Backward (metal)
Right (fire)
Left (water)
Center (earth)
Each motion is a conduit for energy, harmonizing the elements within the body.
Visualization and Inner Mastery
Close your eyes and visualize roots growing from your feet deep into the earth. Golden energy rises through these roots, up your spine, over your head, and pools in your lower abdomen, creating warmth. Imagine steam rising, filling your body with vitality. This visualization strengthens the mind-body connection, allowing energy to move freely.
Meditation and Stillness
Sit comfortably, aligning with the energy of the earth. Place your hands on your knees, fingertips pointing outward at 20 degrees, activating acupuncture points that enhance energy flow. Set an intention and then release it—like an arrow shot into the cosmos.
Ask yourself, What will my next thought be? Then wait. Observe without attachment. This practice cultivates stillness, the foundation of self-mastery.
The Secret to Longevity and Vitality
Breathwork and movement combat stagnation and inflammation—the two greatest culprits of aging. A dry mouth and dry skin signify depletion, while moisture indicates vitality. Keep the tongue up, encourage saliva production, and let the chi circulate to the fingertips and toes.
Death begins in the big toe—why? Because it is the farthest from the center. This is why we move, stretch, and breathe deeply, ensuring the energy reaches every part of our body.
With consistent practice, we refine our internal energy, mastering the art of breath and self-awareness. Keep the stillness within you, allowing it to permeate all aspects of life. The journey is ongoing—breathe deeply, move freely, and live fully.