Water Breathing

The Hawaiian tradition of healing has roots very deep in the island's history and is called "Huna." "Huna" is a blend of psychology, philosophy, and religion that has its own understanding of the processes of life and universal energy. It also has a few other names, like "Ha Breathing" or "Kahuna Breathing," and is a breathwork technique that aims to increase the energy levels for healing and self-empowering.

"The kahunas (Hawaiian priests) believed that by the action of the mind, a man could create additional energy to accumulate a surcharge of mana (life force energy) when needed. They felt that hard breathing would assist in making this vital force. This theory is supported by medical doctors, who have found that our food is digested and then changed to glycogen or blood sugar, which is then oxidized with the oxygen we breathe and gives us our strength to live. Since the low self (subconscious mind) controls all our bodily functions, it can burn more blood sugar by taking in more air to create mana."

-William R. Glover, Huna: The Ancient Religion of Positive Thinking

How to practice

The "Huna" technique is based on natural breathing and is done through the nose. While relatively simple, it still requires some concentration.

Step 1. Sit or stand straight, inhale gradually through the nose, apply pressure on your lower abdomen, thus filling the lower section of the lungs with air. Fill the middle part of the lungs by inhaling calmly for 4 seconds and gradually expand your chest. Push out the upper part of the chest, thus filling the rest of the lungs with air.

Step 2. Hold your breath for 4 seconds.

Step 3. Exhale slowly through the mouth for 8 seconds while loudly whispering - "Haaaa."

Warnings

It is advised to consult with your doctor before starting any exercises if you've had any heart or respiratory conditions or other related concerns.

Pregnant Women: Pregnant women should avoid breath retention.

Blood Pressure: Abstain practicing this technique if you have blood pressure issues.

Trauma-Sensitive: It is advised to avoid practicing box breathing if suffering from trauma since the lungs and the diaphragm may feel tight in the process, which will lead to the elevation of the stress level.

If at any time during any breathing practice you start hyperventilating or feeling light-headed, abort the exercise and wait until you return to your normal state. Be sure to have mastered the first three steps (inhalation-retention-exhalation) before retaining your breath after exhalation.