Zen Kokyu Breathing Workshop at Qi
Zen Kokyu: The Art of Zen Breathing for Modern Wellness
Zen Kokyu, or Zen breathing, is a traditional Japanese practice rooted in Zen Buddhism. For centuries, monks used this method of deep, mindful breathing to calm the mind, center awareness, and cultivate inner strength. The practice emphasizes slow inhalation, a moment of stillness, and gentle exhalation—each breath becoming a path to clarity and balance.
Historically, Zen Kokyu developed alongside meditation practices in Japanese monasteries, where breathing was considered the bridge between body and mind. Today, it continues to serve as a powerful tool for stress relief, focus, and self-regulation in modern life. Much like Qigong, Zen breathing is a meditative art that harmonizes energy and enhances vitality.
Why Practice Zen Kokyu?
Breathing practices like Zen Kokyu are known to lower stress, regulate blood pressure, and improve emotional resilience. By focusing deeply on the breath, practitioners calm the nervous system, sharpen concentration, and build mindfulness. When paired with Qigong, Zen Kokyu enhances awareness of energy flow, creating a powerful synergy of movement and stillness.
Even a single session can leave participants with a greater sense of clarity and calm—making it a valuable addition to any wellness practice. For example, Zen Kokyu can help busy New Yorkers find balance after a long workday, or deepen the benefits of a Qigong routine by adding breath-centered awareness.
Zen Kokyu at The Qi Qigong Center
We met Master Yuki Shiima during our summer travels for Zen Kokyu breathing practice at their studio in Tokyo, and as with energy flow so it happened that Master Shiima had a prescheduled tour in New York and scheduled this special breathing workshop at The Qi - Qigong Center, located at 26 West 8th Street, New York. Although not part of regularly scheduled classes, Qi hosts Zen Kokyu as a special event led by visiting teachers and practices related to Qigong. These unique sessions gave students the rare opportunity to explore the history, technique, and benefits of Zen breathing alongside their regular Qigong, Yoga, breathing and meditation practices.
At The Qi Qigong Center, regular classes focus on Qigong for health, energy, and mindfulness. When special events like Zen Kokyu are offered, they provide an enriching complement—giving students a chance to experience the blending of Japanese Zen traditions with Chinese Qigong energy work.
