Forums IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ Spring Forest Qigong Reverse Breathing

Since I began SFQ last September, I have been practicing the reverse breathing. To date it still doesn't come naturally to me. I find myself doing the yoga breathing as usual. How important is it that I do the reverse breathing? I have practiced the yoga belly breathing for over 25 years and this is what is natural to me. I prefer it over the reverse breathing. I am getting results from SFQ-feelings of empowerent and clearer thinking. Thanks for your help.
Heartbeat

Aloha Heartbeat,

Like Chunyi says: Breathing is important to your
practice. In the beginning it is more important that you breathe slowly and evenly than it is to do Qigong breathing.

When you practice breathing like he suggests, it will soon become second nature. This might be opposite of the "abdominal/belly/yogic" breathing which is so mainstream right now, but it helps balance your body's energy better.

Just remember there is no "right" or "wrong" way to breathe in Spring Forest, there is only good, better, best.

Preferring your yogic breath is perfect -just like grandma's cookies. You don't have to change, or do anything

Since the reverse breathing changes the quality of the energy coming into the body and more effectively balances the body, you may want to treat it like a new person in your life. Not forcing yourself to spend every day with them, but rather starting off with saying "hi", or a short conversation about how the walleyes were biting yesterday... After while you'll find yourself sharing about the kids, more personal experiences that touch and challenge you, and little things like the Jurlique Lip Balm they just have to try. Develop your relationship too with the new breathing, rather making it a "have to".

I always suggest starting your qigong doing three relaxed reverse breaths and forgetting about it for the rest of the exercises/meditation. Doing this, and taking short, slow & relaxed reverse breathing breaks in the middle of your daily activities will also help make the process automatic and natural afterwhile without having to force the breath upon you .

Much Love, Shawn

Shawn:

I like the tip of doing 3 reverse breaths at the beginning of the practice then letting go and forgetting about it. Then, having awareness of the breath at points during the day. Kinda takes the pressure off of wanting to do it perfectly all through the practice.
Thanks.
Heartbeat