CONSCIOUS CONNECTED BREATH
CCB brings a constant flow of energy into the body for the purpose of healing, and counteracts the muscular shrinkage associated with sub-ventilation (not using enough of your lung capacity) by encouraging an open breathing movement. The pace is slightly faster than usual, but without forcing or pushing.
Your breathing, which you will hear faintly, keeps awareness focused on your body experience rather than in the mind / thought process.
BREATH OF LIFE
Ancient breath traditions such as Dao Yin and Pranayama tach that when we breathe consciously we are not only taking in oxygen but also breathing ‘prank’, ‘life force’ or ‘qi’ energy into the body. This is the essential energy that actives healing and wellness.
HEALING ENERGY
Bringing awareness to our breath - noticing and potential changing the patterns that we are in, can bring great benefit to the body and mind.
THE PROCESS
Conscious connect breathing involves eliminating the pause between the inhale and exhale, and breathing in and out through your nose or your mouth in a continuous motion of breath.
Find an open and relaxed position for your body. Slightly tuck your chin towards your chest.
Choose to breathe either through your mouth or nose. Begin to breathe with no pause between the inhale and the exhale.
Make the inhale longer - breathing in for 2-3 seconds and out for about a second. Focus on the in-breath, releasing the exhale naturally, without effort. To encourage this soft exhale, you can add a little sign as your breath out.
Breathe in this pattern for a few minutes, moving your body as little as possible and notice any sensations arising.
Place a hand on your abdomen. Allow your breath to move your hand. The raise your hand to the diaphragm and mid-rib cage area. Feel your breath moving your hand here. Lift your hand to the chest area. Notice how your hand rises and falls with your breath.
After a few minutes, shift the pattern so that the inhales and exhales are now of equal length, or if you prefer, you can make the exhale longer. Notice that this shift of emphasis has the effect of calming down any stimulating feelings.
Practise this technique when you need to build either stimulation and action, or calm energy and peaceful integration in the body. The process also opens up breathing areas that have become closes or inactive.