Reverse breathing

Reverse breathing is a breathing technique associated with qigong. It is commonly referred to as Taoist breathing. It consists of expanding the abdomen while breathing out through the nose and then compressing it while inhaling through the mouth, which is the opposite of what an abdomen would do during natural, instinctive breathing.

Uses

The technique is also widely practiced in a number of martial arts. Some notable ones include Chinese systems such as baguazhang, tai chi and other styles of kung fu. Reverse breathing is believed to activate healing and protective qi as the practitioner is consciously controlling the breath in a way opposite to normal breathing. By expanding the abdomen while delivering some technique (e.g. punch), the martial artists also protect the inner organs from any received counterattack. Reverse breathing is also often practiced for the purpose of deepening a meditation or drawing energy into the body.

Further reading

• Blazek, D.; et al. (2021). "The effect of breathing technique on sticking region during maximal bench press". Biology of Sport. 38 (3): 445–450. doi:10.5114/biolsport.2021.100362. PMC 8329978. PMID 34475625.
• Chia, Mantak (2006). Iron Shirt Chi Kung. Inner Traditions/Bear. ISBN 978-1594771040.
• Farhi, D. (1996). The Breathing Book: Good Health and Vitality Through Essential Breath Work. Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 978-0805042979.
• Frantzis, B. K. (2006). Opening the Energy Gates of Your Body: Qigong for Lifelong Health. North Atlantic Books. ISBN 978-1583941461.
• Horwood, G. (2008). Tai Chi Chuan and the Code of Life: Revealing the Deeper Mysteries of China's Ancient Art for Health and Harmony. Jessica Kingsley Publishers. ISBN 978-1848190016.