In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian and co-host John explore the profound connection between breath, health, & Orthodox Christianity.
They discuss how breath is not merely a biological function, but a spiritual practice that connects us to God & the Holy Spirit. The conversation delves into the dangers of alternative spiritual & modern "secular" breathwork practices that may lead to spiritual deception, contrasting them with the Orthodox understanding of breath as a sacred gift.
Practical steps for integrating breath with prayer & the physiological benefits of proper breathing are also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of humility & surrender in the practice of breathing.
The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to reflect on their breathing & its spiritual significance.
Takeaways
- Breath is central to life & communion with God.
- The Holy Spirit is intimately connected to our breath.
- Breath should be received, not controlled.
- Orthodox breathing practice emphasizes humility & surrender.
- Modern breathwork can lead to spiritual deception.
- Breath reflects our spiritual condition & state of being.
- Proper breathing techniques can enhance physical health.
- Breath is a gift from God & a means of grace.
- The Jesus Prayer can be integrated with breathing.
- Restoration of breath leads to healing of body & soul.
Chapters
00:00 Opener
01:30 The Breath of Life: An Introduction
06:28 Breath as a Divine Mystery
08:02 Breath: An Icon of Life & Communion
11:13 The Sacredness of Breath in Orthodoxy
13:48 Self-Empowerment Vs. Surrender in Breathing
17:30 Orthodox Breathing vs. Modern Practices
19:48 The Goal is Christ
22:24 The Science of Breathing
29:37 Bag Breathing for Your Mitochondria?
31:17 Relearning Stillness
34:21 4-Step Christian Breathing Framework
39:34 Closing Thoughts & Looking Forward to the Next Episode
40:11 Outro
Prayerful Breathing for Orthodox Christians Free Resource: Download here
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Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album": Purchase here
