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The Harmonizing Body

Author: Cindy Chung
Date Posted: April 02, 2009

The human body (our 'instrument') is an extremely complex, miraculous piece of biotechnology; its systems work together to ensure the maintenance of homeostasis. We will look at the process that allows the synchronization between the bodily systems to take place: breathing. As you are reading this now, gently become aware of your breath, reflect upon the fact that the average human breathes between 14,000 and 22,000 times in a 24-hour cycle and that you have been breathing since the day you were born and will continue until you die. How many of these countless breaths have you been aware of? How much do you know about, let alone practice, the correct, natural breathing technique?

In every Meditation system I have ever studied (systems originating from all over the planet and at different times in man's history), the awareness of the breath and consequent refinement of the breathing technique plays a pivotal role. Good breathing habits are fundamental to the maintenance of health in the body and allow an exchange of gases involving the acquisition of oxygen (02) and the elimination of carbon dioxide (C02). The efficient exchange of these gases enhances cellular function and so facilitates normal performance of the brain, organs and body tissues. The breath synchronizes our bodily systems via a complex set of reflexes - it assists in fluid movement (lymph, blood) and helps maintain spinal mobility through regular, mobilizing, thoracic cage movement. It enhances digestive function via rhythmic positive and negative pressure fluctuations. Of course, bad breathing habits will adversely affect all of the above.

Breathing plays a vital role in maintaining the homeostasis between the physical. Intellectual and emotional energies m the body and has a profound effect on how we express ourselves. For instance, musical phrases all have their origins in breathing, and you speak on the 'out' breath and replenish on the 'in' breath, the process of which has played a fundamental part in forming our thought processes. Even popular advice, such as 'take a few deep breaths' which is given before entering into a stressful situation, points to an understanding of the role that breath plays in harmonizing and keeping us balanced. In a self-defence situation against actual physical attack, control of breath brings increased power, stamina, freedom of movement and the ability to control the debilitating effects of fear. But as always, be sure to assess the situation before engaging in any self-defence movements.

About The Author

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Article Source: JKD Street Combat - online collection of Tai Chi articles.

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