Taking a Deep Breath
August 27, 2024 Alexander H. Ross
Breath meditation and breathwork manipulate physiological, neuroscientific, and phenomenological factors to induce different states of mind and bodily experiences. The chapter argues that meditation can influence a range of common factors shared by all psychotherapeutic approaches. A foundational meditation technique using the breath as the object of attention is presented as a way to cultivate a general therapeutic stance. A guided meditation is included to help readers become familiar with the breath as a foundation for other techniques and to create a “home in the breath” that enables easier access to this mindset.