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Reverse breathing is a breathing technique associated with yoga and qigong. It is commonly referred to as Taoist Breathing. It consists of expanding the abdomen while breathing out through the nose and then compressing it while inhaling through the mouth, which is the opposite of what an abdomen would do during natural, instinctive breathing.[1] A pure, inner type of thought focus may arise while practicing Reverse Breathing.[2]

The technique is also widely practiced in a number of martial arts. Some notable ones include Chinese systems such as Baguazhang, T'ai chi ch'uan, and other styles of Kung Fu.[2] Reverse Breathing is believed to activate healing and protective Chi as the practitioner is consciously controlling the breath in a way opposite to normal breathing. By expanding the abdomen while delivering some technique (e.g. punch), the martial artists also protect the inner organs from any received counterattack.

There are many benefits to the practice of Reverse Breathing. It has been proven to strengthen abdominal muscles because the practice requires that one uses their abdominal muscles in order to take in breath while shrinking your stomach.[1] It is also believed to strengthen your immune system by spreading oxygen throughout the body that creates an energy that can protect the body from viruses and negative bacteria. This Idea is known as Guardian Chi.[3] Reverse Breathing can also improve energy levels by causing a change in pressure between the chest and the abdomen. The last known benefit is that it can increase one's lung capacity. Breathing in reverse to how your body naturally would, allows more air to enter your lungs, which can help to train the lungs to take in more air.[1] Reverse Breathing is also often practiced for the purpose of deepening a meditation or relaxing through different breathing techniques. It has also been proven to help remedy poor posture.[2]

References: "The Effects of Reverse Breathing". LIVESTRONG.COM. Retrieved 2019-02-10. "Reverse Breathing". Tai Chi Basics. 2015-11-01. Retrieved 2019-02-10. "Reverse Breathing; In Spite Its Many Purported Benefits, It Should Onl – Optimal Breathing LLC". breathing.com. Retrieved 2019-02-10.