Breathing Concentration Methods

Concentration on breathing is one of the most traditional and effective methods in the practice of meditation.. By focusing our attention on breathing, we can calm the mind, anchor ourselves in the present and cultivate greater awareness. There are different techniques to develop this concentration, adapted to different levels of experience and objectives. Next, We explore some of the most relevant methods, including a unique and efficient method that I teach in my introductions to meditation: the method of “corsages”, created by master Dokushô Villalba.

1. Simple Observation of Breathing

This is one of the most basic and well-known methods. It consists of bringing attention exclusively to the natural flow of breathing. Without changing the respiratory rate, We simply observe how air enters and leaves our body. Attention can be focused on different areas such as:

  • The nasal passages, feeling the passage of air.
  • The abdomen, noticing how it expands and contracts.
  • The chest, perceiving the movement of the lungs.

This method is great for beginners., since it helps train the mind not to be easily distracted. However, at first, It is normal for thoughts to arise; when this happens, you simply gently turn your attention to the breath.

2. Count Breaths

A variation of the previous method is to count your breaths, which adds an element of structure to the observation. There are different ways to count:

  • Count each inspiration or expiration: Count “1” when inhaling, “2” when exhaling, until you reach 10. Then you start again from 1. This method requires a little more attention, since it is easy to lose count.
  • Count only exhalations: In this case, It is only counted each time you exhale., which can be useful for those who find it more natural to follow the rhythm of the air coming out.

Counting breaths helps the mind stay focused and can be especially helpful for those who find it difficult to maintain continuous attention on their breathing..

3. The “Posages” Method

A highly effective breathing concentration technique, is the method of “corsages”.

The method consists of the following:

  • At the end of each exhalation and before the next inhalation begins, of mentally “1”. Do this for five full breaths., that is to say, of mentally “2”, “3”, “4”, y “5” in the next breaths. This constitutes a “corsage”, that is to say, five breaths.
  • Once the first bouquet is completed, name mentally “1” at the end of the first bouquet.
  • Repeat the process: after five full breaths, name mentally “2” (second bouquet).
  • Continue in the same way, repeating five breaths per bouquet, until completing five bouquets.

The goal is to make five bouquets, which represents a cycle of concentration in breathing. For the most advanced, The next step is to increase practice, forming groups of breaths until completing five bouquets of five bouquets each.

This method helps maintain concentration for longer and encourages a deeper connection with the natural rhythm of breathing.. As one progresses in practice, The bouquet method develops a sense of flow and calm in the mind, facilitating the meditative state.


Conclusion

Breathing is a fundamental anchor in meditation and there are many methods to develop concentration through it.. From simple observation to more structured techniques such as the bouquet method, Each of these approaches has its benefits and can be adapted to different levels of experience. The most important thing is to find the technique that best suits your personal practice and persevere with it., since consistency is key to deepening meditation.

The bouquet method, in particular, offers a clear and efficient structure for those who want to start meditating with a direct focus on breathing. Try these techniques and see which helps you maintain the deepest connection with your breathing and the present moment..