Meditation includes a lot of mindful breathing. There are thousands of forms of meditation breathing techniques. These processes have been there since ancient times. Each meditation breathing technique has a different aim and purpose. But in the end, it all results in achieving a healthy system of body and mind. In Buddhist meditation, people relax with breathing techniques.
1.Shamatha
This originated from Buddhism, thousands of years ago. It means breathing as it is. It is a breathing technique that centers around mindfulness of your breathing as it is. It is a very common part of mindful meditation. Shamatha helps in increasing concentration and helps to live in the present if done consistently for a long period of time. One can do it both while sitting or standing.
2.Nadi Shodhana And Pranayama
This practice is generally a part of Hinduism and it basically means alternate nostril breathing. It involves controlled breathing while focusing on the body and finding the internal balance of the body. It is a technique to breathe through one nostril at a time, keeping the other nostril closed manually. This should be practised while being seated. Studies have shown that it helps in creating a balance between the left and the right brain of the human body.
3.Kundalini
Kundalini also originated from Hinduism and is about diaphragm breathing. The practice of this specific meditation breathing technique revolves around moving energy within the body through controlled breathing, as a diaphragmatic breathing technique. The diaphragm is the most efficient breathing muscle that is located at the bottom of our lungs. This process helps in strengthening our lungs and improves our breathing system.
4.Zhanqi
Zhanqi is a part of Taoism. This technique of breathing emphasizes finding peace of mind. The process aims to unite breath and mind by focusing on the breath until it gets soft. In simple words, it is basically breathing until it gets soft. Sitting comfortably in a firm posture while eyes are half-closed is suggested.
5.Kumbhaka Pranayama
Again, originated from Hinduism, Kumbhaka Pranayama is a kind of breathing technique that uses intermittent breath holding followed by inhaling or exhaling. This process is useful for preventing metabolism issues due to body problems. Sitting with the spine upright and exhaling all of the air in the lungs through the mouth is the right process of practising it. Lips should be closed and the nose should inhale the air slowly until the lungs get full.
Wrapping Up
Meditation has proven to be extremely helpful when it comes to health benefits. Meditation breathing techniques have been proven to bring out a wide range of long term and short term health benefits. Not just for the body but also for the mind, they have been very helpful. Many people get introduced to meditation because they want to get rid of stress, anxiety, depression and most of the time it really helps. This form has been embraced by the entire world with open arms