Body Art & Breath Work
Body Art & Breath Work
Kumbhaka Prana
“Retention of Breath”
Below are my instructions and breathing techniques on tattooing the upper body. Before I explain my method, I want to preface that I am not a certified breathing instructor. This method is what works for me and my results are based off of my own independent research and tattoo sessions.
Although regulating your breathing during any tattoo session is important, it is even more crucial during a sternum or upper body piece. Since my tattooing style includes mostly linework, it is crucial for clients to know how to breathe properly during this portion of the tattoo session.
Khumbaka Prana or “retention of breath between the inhale and exhale” is the moment when I am tattooing.
A good beginner breathing technique is a 4 count inhale, 4 count hold, and a 6 count exhale. The longer you are able to “hold your breath” in between the inhale and the exhale will allow me to get through the linework faster. It is also important to not force your hold for too long. This may result you to feel light headed and may cause you to pass out!
To practice before your tattoo appointment, check out the link below.
Visualizing the Breath:
Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity:
Fabric of Space & Time
I have been comparing tattooing the stomach and upper body to Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity.
My client’s stomach or breathing is synonymous to the fabric of space and time while my hand and the needle is the mass moving through the fabric.
Proper nasal diaphragmatic breathing is also essential for any upper body tattoo. This will prevent lightheadedness and ensure enough oxygen inhalation through out the session.
Learning how to move with the breath allows me to focus on the steadiness of my lines.