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Questions and Answers about Full Wave Breathing

Guest columnist Linda Osga

Q:  I have been studying yoga for some time and want to know what does the Full Wave Breathing do that I would not get from my yoga (Pranayama) breath practices?
A: First, Pranayama, which is the regulation of breath, was designed to help balance the emotions and bring clarity of mind to the practitioner. Many of the yogic breath exercises are very structured in nature with a specific purpose. As a Certified Yoga Instructor, I have felt the relaxation effects of the practices and focused attention which has assisted in quieting the mind.

Full Wave Breathing took it to another level for me. First, the attention to opening the breathing mechanism so that the lower, mid, and upper lobes of the lungs expand fully has markedly increased my oxygen uptake and transport to my cells. This can be felt with increased energy, ability to focus, endurance, complete recovery from chronic physical symptoms and emotional disturbances, etc.

The effects were dramatic. The circular nature of the Full Wave Breath moves energy, so stored trauma and stressors move creating an expansive feeling in both mind and body. The “intention” of the Full Wave Breathing is Combining the breath with such intention has made it the most powerful of breath practices I have ever engaged in.

Also, the “surrender” of the exhale is a concept that opens the “breather” to their expansive nature and opens the door to their higher state of consciousness. In short, for me, it was the most efficient way I have ever found to connect with my higher consciousness and get to a deep meditative state.

Q:  Sometimes when I breathe, my hands get tight and go into a contraction. What does this mean? AND How can I get them to relax?
A: When beginning the Full Wave Breath Practice, some participants may experience these symptoms as a response to the high levels of oxygen. When a body that has taken very low levels of oxygen due to habitual shallow breathing suddenly begins taking in larger volumes, some are not able to assimilate. The carbon dioxide levels plummet as the oxygen levels rise causing the body’s Ph to become alkaline. When this happens, it presents itself in the contraction of muscles (often in the hands and face).

A simple solution is to take an inhale and retain it in the lungs; i. e, hold your breath for as long as you can. When you cannot hold it anymore, exhale and relax your breathing. Rest while your body is balancing out. Repeat this a few times until you can feel your limbs relaxing. When you are comfortable you can resume your practice. Begin slowly—allowing the inhale to be slow and surrender/relax fully on the exhale. Soon you will be able to continue the breathing cycle for longer periods of time as your body becomes more efficient in assimilating the higher levels of oxygen. Remember, this breath practice is intended to feel good! Adjust the duration to fit your comfort level.

Q: Why do I keep falling asleep when I breathe in my practice?
A: This is a common occurrence when someone is starting a Full Wave Breath Practice and the body cannot process the increased oxygen level and simply shuts down for a break. It can also be in response to the increased flow of energy moving deep rooted trauma that the body processes while in the sleep state. So, take the opportunity to be gentle with yourself and slow down. There is no need to rush the process! Enjoy and have a great nap!

Q. I find myself wanting to breathe more and more. Can you overdo the amount of Full Wave Breathing you do in a day?
A: The short answer is NO. Feeling great can be addictive and the Full Wave Breath Practice wakes up that inner JOY that naturally feels so wonderful that you just want to continue. So “breath up,” enjoy and let your body be your guide as to how much breathing works for you. 

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Dr. Tom Goode is the co-founder of the International Breath Institute, which was created in 1991 to teach people how to enhance their health and prevent premature aging. He is also an inspirational speaker, workshop facilitator, and author of five books, the latest of which is The Holistic Guide to Weight Loss, Anti-Aging and Fat Prevention.