The Tao of Natural Breathing: For Health, Well-Being, and Inner Growth [Paperback]

Dennis Lewis (Author), Juan Li (Author, Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1996

Many of us do not realize that our so-called normal breathing habits often undermine our health and well-being. Natural breathing plays a crucial role in our psychological growth and spiritual development as Dennis Lewis explains in this important work about a powerful form of self-healing. He explores the physiology, psychology, and spirituality of natural breathing and brings together his many years of study in the Gurdjieff work, Advaita Vedanta, and the Healing Tao with the latest scientific thinking. The ideas and practices in each chapter show readers in a step-by-step fashion how they can begin to experience the power of natural breathing in their own lives.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

In addition to its success in the United States, The Tao of Natural Breathing has gained enormous interest from publishers around the world. Foreign language rights have already been sold for the following languages: German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Portuguese, Croation, Russian, Hindi, and a special English language edition in India.

Product Details

• Paperback: 207 pages
• Publisher: Mountain Wind Publishing (September 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0965161102
• ISBN-13: 978-0965161107
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,628,089 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Dennis Lewis (1940-), a long-time-student of Taoism, Advaita, and the Gurdjieff Work, teaches the transformative power of presence through Authentic Breathing(R), qigong, meditation, mindfulness, and self-inquiry. He leads workshops throughout the United States, at venues such as Esalen Institute, The New York Open Center, The Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, and various qigong conferences.

Lewis co-edited two books (now out of print) with Jacob Needleman in the 1970s: "Sacred Tradition & Present Need" and "On the Way to Self Knowledge." His book "The Tao of Natural Breathing: For Health, Well-Being and Inner Growth" was first published in September, 1996, and was republished by Rodmell Press in May 2006. His two-cassette audio program entitled "Breathing as a Metaphor for Living" was released by Sounds True in September 1998, and then re-released on CD in April 2005 as "Natural Breathing." His book "Free Your Breath, Free Your Life: How Conscious Breathing Can Relieve Stress, Increase Vitality, and Help You Live More Fully" was published by Shambhala Publications in May 2004. His most recent book "Breathe Into Being: Awakening to Who You Really Are," was published by Quest Books in May 2009.

He is a member of the National Qigong Association and is listed in Who's Who in America.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

63 of 64 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Probably the best book on breathing for the novice, September 26, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Tao of Natural Breathing: For Health, Well-Being, and Inner Growth (Paperback)

One reviewer criticized the author for his lack of understanding of Tao. I do not think that this is true. I think that the author went as far as he could with a potentially dangerous subject. Anyone pursuing breathing enhancement should be very carefull. When I personally asked some of the great yoga teachers about the concepts and approach used by Lewis, they all agree that Lewis has a very sound approach. Many westerners do not take the time to approach this subject with the proper respect that it requires. A casual survey of the literature and discussions with knowledgable "breathers" suggests that someone pursuing this path must be careful. Some Qi Gong masters refuse to teach westerners breathing techniques because they do not have the discipline to practice responsibly. Lewis takes a very responsible approach. I found it very useful in starting my practice.

40 of 40 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A terrific book--Excellent mix of theory and practice, July 20, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Tao of Natural Breathing: For Health, Well-Being, and Inner Growth (Paperback)

This is one of the best books I've ever read on breathing, and I've read them all. Lewis explores the importance of "natural breathing," and shows how we can integrate it into our everyday lives. The book shows how natural breathing can help reduce the stress in our lives, and can help us maintain our health. It also shows the relationship of natural breathing to spiritual development. The writing is excellent and clear, and there are a lot of illustrations to help the us understand the ideas and practices of healthy breathing. I recommend this book to anyone interested in this fascinating subject.

24 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent introductory work, August 14, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Tao of Natural Breathing: For Health, Well-Being, and Inner Growth (Paperback)

This is my first exposure to breathing work. This book guides you through the basics of it so you can understand its principles and the tremendous power of self-sensing and breath. I am profoundly impressed with what I am learning about myself and recommend it to anyone new to the subject.