Originally Posted by
atropis88
I too struggle with this, as I have a deviated septom, allergies, and am just about always at least somewhat congested. I think part of the problem too is that because I'm so used to breathing mainly through my mouth, that when I try to just breathe through my nose it gives me anxiety because I don't feel like I'm getting as much air as I'm used to. I can last a few minutes with just nose-breathing but usually I instinctually take a deep breath from my mouth because I feel I need it. The problem I find though is that when I sit zazen and just breathe through my mouth, I find my mouth and tongue constantly active. For instance my lips will get dry so I'll lick them, my tongue will move around, I'll slightly open and close my mouth, etc. It's hard to remain physically still. Maybe I'm focusing on it too much? I've been trying different things, like putting my tongue against my bottom teeth and trying to maintain my mouth slightly open. It's tough though. I'm still very new though so I assume this will work itself out.