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Breathing Quote by Alan Watts

“Breathing is important in the practice of meditation because it is the faculty in us that is simultaneously voluntary and involuntary. You can feel that you are breathing, and equally you can feel that it is breathing you. So it is a sort of bridge between the voluntary world and the involuntary…” quote by Alan Watts
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“Breathing is important in the practice of meditation because it is the faculty in us that is simultaneously voluntary and involuntary. You can feel that you are breathing, and equally you can feel that it is breathing you. So it is a sort of bridge between the voluntary world and the involuntary world — a place where they are one.”

Alan Watts

About This Quote

Source Book: The Wisdom of Insecurity, 1951

Breathing bridges voluntary and involuntary processes, serving as a meditative link between conscious control and natural rhythm.

In simple terms: Breathing connects conscious and unconscious.

Key Takeaway

Use breath to unite mind and body.

Themes

meditation mind‑body consciousness

Mood

calm insightful

Type

spiritual practical

When to use this quote

  • stress reduction
  • mindfulness practice
  • yoga

Key Concepts

philosophy neuroscience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does breath affect your focus?
  • Can you notice the involuntary aspect?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on breath may distract from other tasks.

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