Primal Primer 18 (Fitness)
The mostly autonomic action of breath, and harnessing its many benefits has been a cultural teaching across many progenitor cultures; imparting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through cultivation. Holding breath on the exhale before hurling spear or sending arrow into an elk’s heart, was critical to the one shot one kill principle. Slowing breath to calm the body and mind during hand to hand combat kept warriors in the fight despite exhaustion. Or the many modalities focusing on meditation, that maintained stillness of mind and body to draw awareness of healing properties available for all. Adjusting breath with purpose has been an important tool accessible to all past present and future sapiens who tap into this ancient performance enhancer.
Ancient Technology Of Breath
Survival & Physical Optimization – Early humans use breath control during hunting, running, and labor intensive tasks to optimize energy and endurance. Techniques such as nasal breathing during endurance actives help conserve energy and maintain stamina. Cold & heat adaptation is enhanced via controlled hyperventilation. Disciplined and controlled breathing when releasing arrows is also essential for calming nerves and ensuring accuracy of shot..
Healing & Health – Breath control has been central to managing stress and anxiety. The practice of slow, deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, engendering states of systemic calm. Ancient forms of pranayama yoga (breath intensive) supports immune function, increasing resistance to illness by lowering blood pressure, reducing cortisol and inflammation.
Spiritual & Ritualistic Significance – Various forms of breath work has been a part of spiritual practices for thousands of years. In Hinduism and Buddhism Pranayama (breath control) helps in achieving higher states of consciousness and mindfulness. Similar practices found in Taoist traditions, where breathing regulates the flow of Qi for spiritual enlightenment. In shamanistic rituals, holotropic breath work is incorporated to induce altered states of consciousness, enabling communication with the spiritual worlds and healing the psyche.
Emotional Regulation – Release through breath is known to aid in resolving acute and chronic trauma. Central to many cultures, breathing improves focus in combat and creative expression (reciprocal connective benefit). Samurai warriors were known to use breath work in staying calm in high stress situations or coming down from overstimulation of battle.
To Breath Is To Be
Utilize and sharpen breathing protocols to optimize and exert degrees of functionality to a seemingly subconscious activity. Be it psychedelic holotropic work to expand experience, nasal breathing to calm the mind and body, bracing to stabilize and create proximal rigidity, or hypoxia training to stimulate discipline, capillary growth, and healing. With technique, intention, and frequency, breath is a powerful supplement to performance.
~Cave Implementation~
Practice breathing everyday. Breath is a switch that can be activated during yoga, weight training, marksmanship, walking, or meditation. Explore these multi-cultural ancient technologies of inhalation and exhalation. Experiment and be consistent in your research. When in discomfort, out of pocket, or seeking a different functional state, remember your breath.
Breath Is A Powerful Supplement To Performance.
