From mantra chanting and yogic poses to hand postures known as mudras, the world of meditation offers myriad techniques for enhancing awareness and deepening the meditative experience. Chaotic breathing--first popularized by the Indian mystic Osho (Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh)--is a type of breathing exercise used to increase alertness and stimulate the body. This technique is often performed as the first step in the sequence of "dynamic" meditation exercises.
Description
Chaotic breathing involves taking fast, deep inhalations and forceful exhalations, with no concern for maintaining an even tempo. To perform this exercise, the Osho Commune, Meditation and Therapy Center recommends breathing as quickly and deeply as possible through the nose, placing emphasis on each exhalation. Sessions of chaotic breathing typically last for 10 minutes and are often held in the morning. In dynamic or active meditation, you may use chaotic breathing as a precursor for physical release--such as shouting, laughing, crying, dancing or other bodily movements.
Function
Chaotic breathing--particularly when performed in the early hours of the morning--may increase alertness and wakefulness by stimulating the nervous system. According to ActiveMediation.com, chaotic breathing ushers the release of "fight or flight" hormones called catecholamines; this helps raise the body's metabolic rate, which is typically low in the morning following sleep. In turn, the body receives a greater supply of oxygen. When used as part of a dynamic meditation sequence, chaotic breathing may prepare the body for more rigorous movements.
Benefits
As ActiveMeditation.com claims, chaotic breathing stimulates pent-up feelings and repressed wounds, allowing for emotional release and catharsis. Because chaotic breathing may liberate tension and anxieties, it can bestow meditators with a greater sense of well-being. The stimulating effects of deep, rapid breathing may also combat lethargy and fatigue. Individuals who practice chaotic breathing shortly after waking may feel more alert and energetic--an attractive benefit for those who have trouble getting up in the morning.
Considerations
Although anecdotal experiences suggest chaotic breathing can enhance wakefulness during meditation, the effects of this exercise have not been scientifically studied. The physical and psychological consequences of this technique can vary from person to person, and may not always yield successful meditation sessions. In addition, claims about the benefits of chaotic breathing stem largely from Osho's own writings and have not been validated by unbiased sources.
Warning
Because chaotic breathing involves rapid, forced inhalations and exhalations, it may cause lightheadedness or hyperventilation when practiced for extended periods of time. Individuals with lung problems such as asthma, bronchitis, reduced lung capacity or emphysema should avoid chaotic breathing, as it may aggravate these conditions. Meditators experiencing dizziness, faintness or other adverse symptoms should cease chaotic breathing.
