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PRACTICES · 浄心呼吸法

Joshin Kokyu-ho

The "breathing method for cleansing the spirit" — a core meditation of Japanese Reiki.

Joshin Kokyu-ho (浄心呼吸法) means the "technique for cleansing and focusing the spirit through breath." It is one of the central meditations of Japanese-style Reiki.

A breathing meditation

The practice uses slow, mindful breathing to gather and circulate energy, quieten the mind, and strengthen one’s sensitivity to Reiki. It forms part of the daily routine known as Hatsurei-ho, and is often practised on its own as a simple, steadying meditation.

How it is done

A typical round moves gently through these steps:

1
Settle in gassho

Sit comfortably, hands together at the heart, and take a few slow breaths to relax.

2
Breathe in

Inhale slowly through the nose, imagining energy flowing in and gathering in the lower abdomen (the hara).

3
Rest

Pause for a moment, letting the energy settle and spread through the whole body.

4
Breathe out

Exhale gently through the mouth, imagining the energy flowing out through the body and hands.

5
Continue

Repeat at an unhurried pace for a few minutes, keeping the attention soft.

Its place in practice

Practised daily, Joshin Kokyu-ho becomes a small anchor — a few minutes of calm that also builds the quiet awareness many practitioners rely on in a session. It asks for nothing but breath and attention, which is part of its enduring appeal.

JUST FOR TODAY

Even one minute of this slow, belly-centred breathing is a gentle way to reset in the middle of a busy day.

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