#1 Concentrating on the Gap between Breaths
The Supreme Energy (breath) goes upwards with exhalation and downwards with inhalation. By concentrating on the two places of its origin, one acquires the state of fulfillment.
God, Vigyan Bhairava Tantra, Verse 24
Many meditation techniques attempt to quieten the mind, by first focusing the mind on a single point. It is easier to still the mind, by first concentrating the mind on something, than by not concentrating on anything. The breath has been known to be one of the easiest ways to concentrate the mind. That is why the meditations involving breath have been given first. This Technique and the next three technique are asking us to concentrate on the gap between two breaths. There is a gap between our inbreath and our outbreath. There is another gap between our outbreath and our inbreath. We are to focus our attention on these two gaps. This is what is meant by concentrating on the two places of its origin. The breath originates from this pause.
How to Do this Technique
- Sit in a comfortable posture and close your eyes.
- Focus your attention on your breath.
- Then focus your attention on the gap between two breaths.
What not to do
- Do not try and influence your breath in any way. Just observe it.
- You must try and maintain continuous awareness – of the breath and more particularly, the gap between two breaths.
- You should not make the mistake of only concentrating on the gaps between breaths, and letting the mind wander during the breath.
- If one does that, then one will also miss the gap between two breaths. Therefore concentrate on the full breathing cycle, with increased focus on the gap between the breaths.
Benefits of this Technique
- As you continue this practice, you will feel a sense of peace, then joy.
- As you do this practice, you may find the breath becoming more subtle and refined.
- The gap between two breaths may also increase. The breath may slow down.
- The entire breathing cycle may lengthen. When this happens, the mind may calm down.
Why is the origin (the gap) of the breath so important? The breath is pure energy. She is the Supreme Goddess Herself. She originates from God and returns to God. By concentrating on Her origin, one is concentrating on God Himself.
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