Chinese Breathing Exercises: 7 Techniques for Energy, Calm, and Healing

The Art of Chinese Breathing (Qigong 气功)

In Chinese medicine, "breathing is life." The word "Qi" (气) means both energy and air.

7 Breathing Techniques

1. Abdominal Breathing (腹式呼吸)
Method: Breathe slowly and fill your belly first, then your chest. Exhale from the chest, then the belly. 5-10 minutes.
Benefit: Activates the vagus nerve, calms the nervous system, improves digestion.

2. 4-7-8 Breathing (四七八呼吸)
Method: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat 4 times.
Benefit: Helps you fall asleep quickly, reduces anxiety.