Hinduism and Taoism gave rise to the meditation techniques using controlled breathing. In Hinduism meditation is both the path and the goal of all yoga practice. Techniques include controlled breathing, mantra-reciting and visualization of deities, and a number of mind-expanding exercises, such as those to bring about unusual powers (siddhis); to develop one-pointed concentration; and to bring about the state of selfless contemplation known as samadhi. In Taoist belief meditations are aimed at an apprehension of the way in which life manifests and moves. Practices are mainly based on controlled breathing and include the awakening of a centre of sensation behind and between the eyes; on creating and circulating heat within the body; and on such martial arts as t'ai chi, ch'uan, karate, and kung-fu. (Bloom & Lazerson, 1988)
In the Orthodox Church, meditation chiefly takes the form of a repetition of the Prayer of Jesus ('Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner') accompanied by controlled breathing. There are lots of ways to improve your singing, and controlled breathing is at the core of such techniques. By taking deep breaths, supported by the muscle located under your ribs called the diaphragm, you can control the air as it vibrates. By relaxing and not forcing the sound from your throat, you will produce a much better sound. Imagine that you are expelling the air from the very top of your head, rather than through your throat or neck.
It has also been used to relive pain in children. Controlled breathing is often used in conjunction with other techniques or alone to encourage relaxation. The child is taught to take slow deep breaths in through the nose and slowly let the breath out through pursed lips.......
