Anyone who is ever closer to disciplines such as singing, yoga and martial arts will be known for at least the very basic fundamentals, the importance of proper breathing achieve good results. Breathing is the main activity of every human being, the first being done at birth and more fundamental to the continued life of every individual.
Even when we sit in seiza before and after each lesson Aikido , our only task should be to focus on the depth of our breathing, preferably with eyes closed, let us not let our mind is "lean" on the outside sounds, the pain of the ankles or knees, the thought of what awaits us after class. Of course these thoughts are there, but let us slide on the mind, not sunk in but they let it move freely behind each of the next moment ... If we really want to see something, we can, as explained by Master Tada, see what you did during the lesson, perhaps imagining in "third person", and notes with my mind's eye from various angles as we take perform a movement or a technique.
Sounds complicated? we are venturing into fields too "mental"? There is nothing to worry about, with time this will be born in a very natural and almost spontaneous. Important for now is figuring out how to "use" in the best way the air that surrounds us.
When we sit in front of the teacher in seiza practice what is called in Japanese kokyu [ cochiù ] or deep breathing or diaphragmatic .
Master Koichi Tohei has worked hard to teach the use of breathing aimed at what he describes as "mind-body unification" or a perfect coordination of movements from a state of unshakable concentration. I copy below an interesting article found in the sea cliffs of the web without translating from English:
"Master Tohei shows the right way to practice meditation in ' Aikido .
All babies use their abdomen or diaphragm for breathing during the first three months of life, moving thoracic breathing automatically as they grow. No one seems able to understand the cause and the reasons for this step. But practitioners of Aikido , Zen and Yoga believe that the diaphragmatic breathing is the proper way in which man should breathe.
Breathing "deep" or "controlled" should not be confused with meditation. The practice of deep breathing, which is getting much attention in the United States, is not new. The singers practice for years. The exercise begins very slowly exhale through your mouth. Do not exhale as if you inflate a balloon, but rather as if you'd like to clear, cleanse the throat. The breathing is done through the nose slowly. The air flow is through the nose and across his throat. You should feel a slight tension in your throat as if the air will be sucked into it. There is a slight pause of two or three seconds after each inhalation and exhalation. If you are a beginner mentally counted up to 8 inhaling and exhaling, then gradually progressed to can count to 12, 15 and so on. At first fifteen minutes a day of practice is more than enough. Then, as soon as you get used to a bit ' to this method of breathing, you can gradually increase the time to practice these exercises. The best way is to practice sitting, but also you can practice quietly lying down or standing. Whatever posture you choose, remember to keep your back straight, practicing the right way, you will notice that a move is only the abdomen. Start your practice slowly exhale through the mouth. Keep your back straight and focus the mind on one point. "
The teacher continues to practice advising kokyu group inhaling and exhaling with the others, to the rhythm, and it invites us not breathe too aggressive but quietly, gently.
I end this posting (about a topic that sooner or later we will return) by publishing a drawing that shows the path that the air should do during the kokyu in seiza , and wish you as always good practice!
