Tai Chi Breathing Methods
As with many forms of marital arts, the roots of Tai Chi can be traced back to Taoism. The Taoists utilized a particular method of breathing that was based on the respiratory system of the tortoise. Due to the hard shell of the tortoise, the outward expansion of the lungs is limited. Therefore, the lungs of the tortoise must expand by extending the entire length of the body. This makes the breathing of the tortoise harmonious and deep. It is hardly a coincidence that although the tortoise moves quite slowly, it is known for living a very long time.
It was precisely for this reason that the early Taoists and later the masters who founded Tai Chi adopted this breathing method and then later adapted it.
The lungs and the heart must work constantly in order for the body to be kept alive. In order for the human body to remain in good health, it is essential for the lungs and heart to be protected from excessive stress and strain, especially when exercising. Most types of exercise today require the lungs to be expanded when inhaling.
It is this type of expansion that forces the ribs and muscles outwards. This increases the capacity of the chest to take in air, but a tremendous amount of pressure is placed on the lungs. This is why it is so easy for us to become tired out when exercising. It is much the same way that a vehicle which must continually travel uphill will eventually develop problems with the engine.
This type of breathing is not used in Tai chi as it is thought to be improper for those individuals who have now passed their prime and/or those who may be experiencing health issues. Instead, the focus is placed upon making one's movements as harmonious and relaxed as possible. The posture is meant to be natural so that the breathing will be natural as well, as opposed to forced.
Practicing Tai Chi continually over a period of time will force one's breathing to become deep and slow while the internal organs will learn to function in a manner that is harmonious and gentle as well.
When inhaling the diaphragm will expand outwards but will expand downward as well toward the abdomen, providing additional space for the lungs to expand in a downward fashion as well.
When we begin to exhale, the lungs will contract, which will cause the diaphragm to contract as well; upwards and inwards. The motions of the diaphragm as it rises and falls will also help the lungs to function in a proper manner. This rhythmic motion of the diaphragm will work to massage the intestines and the stomach, which will work to gently improve the circulation of the blood. At the same time, the transportation of nutrients throughout the entire body will be improved as well.
This entire process of breathing is known as the downward extension of breath to the Tan Tin in Tai Chi. This is the point that is located approximately one inch below the navel. Over time, as we continually practice Tai Chi, the muscles of the diaphragm will be relaxed, which will make it possible for it to extend downward rather than simply outwards.
It is commonly thought that the air which we take in when breathing is brought downward. This is actually not the case. When we breathe, we should exhale as well as inhale through the nose. The mouth should remain closed and the tongue should rest against the roof of the mouth gently, making it possible for us to salivate. This will help to avoid developing a dry throat while practicing Tai Chi.