Breath and Energy

The subject of breath is the deepest of all subjects with which mysticism or philosophy is concerned, because breath is the most important thing in life...(it) is the result of a current which runs not only through the body, but also through all the planes of man's existence...the current of the whole of nature...  It is one breath and yet it is many breaths.

--Hazrat Inayat Khan

Breath and Energy 

Esoteric science teaches us that the body and mind do not directly interact. Rather, they are linked to each other by an intermediate level of functioning which has to do primarily with “energy.”   This intermediate level of functioning consists of different qualities and patterns of energy that form and shape what is referred to as the “vital sheath,” or subtle body. Esoteric literature describes the subtle body as being shaped much like the physical body but consisting of a vast network of internal and external energy flows in and around the physical body. This subtle body allows the body and mind to influence the other, and function as a unit. Many variables will have an impact on these energy flows, but the most central and fundamental variable is the breath.

The breath constantly ebbs and flows in a rhythmic pattern. With each cycle of inhalation and exhalation, energy flows through the body in waves. This natural flow of the breath is constantly shaping and restructuring the pattern of energy that comprises the “subtle body”. Understanding the significance of this, one begins to understand that when there is a distortion in the breath due to dysfunctional breathing habits, there is also a distortion in energy flow. This distortion affects the intricate balance of the body/mind interface, undermining health and general well being.

Recognizing that the breath is a vehicle for prana, one begins to understand how the breath’s rate, depth, and rhythm all have a critical effect on energy flow. Our model focuses on a systematic method of breathwork designed to identify and dismantle dysfunctional breathing habits as a means to impact energy flow and allow it to move more freely. This can have transforming effects on physical, emotional and spiritual health.