Buteyko Breathing Rules for Chanting

In this video, Sasha Yakovleva explains how to use chanting as a Buteyko Breathing exercise to prevent hyperventilation and boost CO2

Chanting as a Buteyko Breathing Exercise

Chanting can be an effective Buteyko breathing exercise, helping individuals regulate their air intake, reduce hyperventilation, and enhance oxygen efficiency. This practice aligns with the Buteyko Method by encouraging nasal breathing, slow exhalation, and breath control while fostering a calm and focused state.

How Chanting Supports Buteyko Breathing

  1. Promotes Nasal Breathing
    • Chanting can encourage inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth, reducing the tendency to over-breathe and increasing CO2 tolerance.
  2. Regulates Breath Volume
    • The rhythmic nature of chanting can moderate airflow, preventing excessive breathing and stabilizing the respiratory cycle.
  3. Enhances Breath Control
    • Prolonged vocalization during chanting slows down exhalation, which supports oxygen-carbon dioxide balance and improves overall breath efficiency. If can increase CO2 levels in the lungs significantly.
  4. Induces Relaxation and Mindfulness
    • Chanting, especially in a meditative setting, helps lower stress, decrease breathing frequency, and create a sense of inner calm, reinforcing Buteyko principles.

How to Use Chanting as a Buteyko Exercise

  1. Choose a Simple Chant
    • Select a phrase or syllable (such as “Om” or “Aum”) that allows for steady, controlled vocalization. Om Mani Padme Hum chant was specifically recommended by Dr. Buteyko.
  2. Maintain Nasal Breathing
    • Breathe in gently through the nose, avoiding mouth breathing during inhalation.
  3. Control Exhalation
    • Let the chant extend your exhalation naturally, aiming for a slow, steady release of air without forcing it.
    • You will find more suggestions in the video above.

Caution: Avoid Hyperventilation

Chanting is a powerful tool for breath regulation, but only when done correctly. If you chant while over-breathing — especially through excessive mouth inhalations — you may find yourself feeling lightheaded, fatigued, or even anxious instead of relaxed. The key is to maintain gentle, nasal breathing and allow your exhalations to be steady and only slightly forced. Let your breath be your guide, ensuring that your chanting practice remains a source of balance and well-being rather than strain.

By blending chanting with Buteyko breathing techniques, you can harness its full potential to enhance your respiratory function, deepen relaxation, and cultivate an overall sense of harmony in both body and mind.

 

Leave a Comment