In his book Draw Breath, Tom Granger takes inspiration from an ancient Zen breath meditation practice and reintroduces it in fun and creative ways. Draw Breath is as educational about the breath as it is about meditation, mindfulness, and creativity. What I like most about the book is that it invites curiosity about the breath in a hands-on way and that the exercises are accessible and instantly interactive.
„Draw Breath invites you to mindfully explore your own breath through a series of simple, rejuvenating, and unique drawing exercises; literally drawing your breath on the page!
As well as being inherently meditative, each page has a deeper meaning related to your breathing experience. Each exercise will help you to explore something new about the physiology, psychology or philosophy of your breath, while offering a focused, calming and rhythmic breathing experience. So you can make ‘breathtaking’ art. Literally.
The book combines the hot-topics of health and mindfulness with the spirit of adult-creativity and relaxing colouring books in a whole new way.
The philosophy behind Draw Breath takes inspiration from the ‘enso’ circle; the simple mark drawn by traditional Zen calligraphers in time with a natural exhalation during a state of enlightenment. It draws its influences from the ancient and the new – creatively exploring ideas from buddhism, yoga and qigong as well as the latest research in breath science, anatomy and mindfulness meditation.
You don’t need to be good at art or drawing to enjoy Draw Breath. You don’t need any prior experience with yoga or meditation and the book is particularly helpful for people who struggle to stay focused during traditional meditation.“
Recommendation: Tom Granger also has a youtube channel where he talks with different breath and mindfulness experts.