2. Notes on Reverse Breathing

1) It is extremely important for you to maintain your concentration during this exercise. Now that you are used to Abdominal Breathing, you will have to focus even harder to perform the exact opposite movements for Reverse Breathing.

2) DO NOT mix up the two exercises — maintain the proper technique for each exercise. In practice, you should begin with several cycles of Abdominal Breathing, focusing on the proper technique for that exercise. Then, continue your practice session with Reverse Breathing, concentrating on the technique for that exercise only. Do not do one cycle of Abdominal Breathing and then do a cycle of Reverse Breathing, etc. Keep the two exercises separate.

3) As you become used to the movements of Reverse Breathing, try to maintain the same rhythm in the breathing as you did for Abdominal Breathing: two counts in, two (or four) counts hold, four (or eight) counts out. Again, as you advance in practice, try to slow down and quiet down your exhalations, while maintaining the proper technique.

4) Always make sure you are in proper standing position. Self-check yourself occasionally to make sure you have not "broken form."

5) Practice both Abdominal and Reverse Breathing, twice a day, at least ten minutes per session, until you are comfortable with both techniques and can easily perform both "naturally." Then you will be ready to proceed to the next level.

6) In order to enhance the anti-depressant effect of Reverse Breathing, you may reverse steps 4 and 5 (that is hold your breath after each exhalation).

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