Breathe in the Four Directions

Positioning

Sit comfortably with your spine upright, either on a chair with feet flat on the floor or cross-legged on a cushion. Place your hands under your arms, as if you are hugging yourself. Rest comfortably in that position and close your eyes. Center your attention on your chest and breathe deeply.

Steps

1. 1

   Orient to the North (9 breaths)

   Sit quietly, close your eyes and imagine yourself facing north. Feel a cool, brisk air on your face. Breathe in and out slowly at a relaxed pace for nine cycles. Let your mind follow your breath. Keeping your eyes closed, bow in your mind to the north.

2. 2

   Orient to the East (9 breaths)

   Keeping your eyes closed, turn to the East. Imagine the Sun rising on the east, feeling its warming rays dancing upon your face. Breathe in and out slowly at a relaxed pace for nine cycles. Let your mind follow your breath. At the end of the ninth breath, end by bowing to the east.

3. 3

   Orient to the South (9 breaths)

   Still keeping your eyes closed, turn in your imagination to the south. Feel the sun shine on you with healing rays. Breathe in and out slowly and in a relaxed pace for nine cycles. At the end of the ninth breath, bow to the south.

4. 4

   Orient to the West (9 breaths)

   Turn to the west in your mind and enjoy a beautiful sunset with bursts of colors and warmth above the western horizon. Breathe in and out slowly at a relaxed pace for nine cycles. End by bowing to the west.