Do you sometimes feel drained and need the energy to tackle stress, a heavy workload, and other daily challenges?
Total concentration breathing is one of the most simple and effective ways to improve athletic performance, mental clarity, reaction time, and overall strength. It’s often called box breathing, a variation of deep breathing that helps combat anxiety and stress quickly.
This breathing technique was popular in the Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Hinokami Chronicles game, where the user must intake vast amounts of oxygen to increase focus, speed, flexibility, and physical abilities.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist, swimmer, or marathon runner or looking for an effective way to enhance mental performance and concentration, total concentration breathing is an excellent method to consider.
Read on to learn the benefits of this breathing method and how you perform it easily at home, at work, or in preparation for an event.
How to Prepare for Total Concentrated Breathing
Before you begin, find a space that’s quiet, comfortable, and where you’re less likely to experience any interruptions. Sit upright in a chair, preferably with a sturdy back, so your spine remains aligned. Place your feet flat on the floor, and gently close your eyes.
If there’s a plush carpet or rug in the room, you may sit cross-legged in the same position, placing your hands on your lap or knees as you relax. Your posture must be upright, allowing you to gain the most out of this breathing style.
Before You Get Started
If you’re new to this breathing practice, you may notice some effects during the first few times. Initially, you may feel dizzy or experience lightheadedness, which may seem contrary to its benefits. This process is normal, especially if you have a medical condition that can impact your energy levels or breathing.
For this reason, it’s crucial to start slowly, stop at any time if you feel uncomfortable, and resume once you’re ready again.
Dizziness is the main side effect, which is temporary, and should only last during the initial attempts of this breathing exercise. If you encounter this experience, pause for a moment, sit still, and breathe normally.
In contrast to the flame-breathing anime character, which this breathing technique is known for, you may not feel strong or invigorated right away. Once you get used to this type of breathwork, you’ll find yourself renewed like a fire god and ready to take on your next challenge.
Your environment will make a significant impact on how well this technique works. Ideally, you’ll need a dark or dimly lit room or space that’s quiet and free of distractions.
Remove any electronics or lighting that can be a distraction, and maintain focus on your breathing before you start. After a few successful sessions, you’ll feel recharged like a sun-breathing demon slayer and ready for any task ahead.
Setting the atmosphere for relaxation can involve scented candles, essential oils, and gentle music or soothing background sounds to ease your mind before you start.
You’ll find many great options in preparation for your mini-retreat, whether you take comfort in crashing ocean waves, summer rain, or the sounds of the forest.
How to Use Total Concentrated Breathing
There are five steps involved in the box breathing or full concentration breathing process:
- Exhale entirely so that all the oxygen is removed from your lungs. Focus on this intention, and visualize a wave of air leaving your body.
- Inhale slowly and consistently through your nose. Count to four until you are done, and fill your lungs with air. You should feel your stomach expand as this happens.
- Hold your breath and count to four in the same measure of time it took to inhale.
- Exhale, counting to four again, expelling all the oxygen from your lungs and stomach. Visualize the air leaving your body during this stage.
- Hold your breath for another count of four, and continue the process three or four times in the same order.
You’ll find this breathing technique easy to perform almost anywhere, whether getting ready for a meeting at work, calming your mind before taking an exam, or preparing for physical exercise.
You’ll need a sturdy chair and a few moments of peace and quiet during the day or night. It’s also a great way to unwind after a busy day at work or school.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re an athlete getting ready for a sporting event, reducing stress after a busy day at work, or looking to enhance your power like the demon slayer action figure in the Hinokami Chronicles game, preparing to defend against enemies and increase strength, total concentration breathing is a highly advantageous method that will bring you calmness, while energizing your body and mind.
