The Ha (or Breath)

The universe (as we perceive it) precipitates from moment to moment with each breath we take.

Yet we take breathing for granted. Over time, some even become lazy and breath solely into the top of their lungs.

The Ha is a spiritual technique, used by Polynesian Hawaiians to help  recognise that body, soul and spirit are ultimately one with experience.

The Ha is very easy to do. You don’t need to remember any phrases, or make any incantations.

All you do is to focus on your breathing.

You take in a breath over a seven second count (making sure that all of your lungs are filled).

Hold this breath for a further count of seven, and breath out on another count of seven.

Pause for a count of seven and repeat the process.

Those who find a count of seven too long may start with a count of four, yet a count of seven should be your aim in the long run.

Do this seven times and you’ll have completed your first ‘Ha’.

When I say count up to seven, I mean seven seconds: One and Two and Three and Four until the number Seven is reached.

For those who find this uncomfortable, simply start with four rounds of the Ha and in due course work up to seven.

The Ha is a good exercise to do before any conscious cleaning. It’s also recommended when you’re about to take a journey (even if it’s just a short trip to the shops).

For longer trips, it’s helpful, especially for those who customarily suffer jet-lag.

Dr. Ihaleakala Hew Len always recommended cleaning on any vehicles you may use on a journey.

These included all forms of transport including cars, ships and aircraft.

Whilst travelling, he also recommends performing the Ha from time to time.

When you do the HA breathing, you’re closing down the door to your subconscious mind, which is holding all of the information, thoughts, and beliefs that do not serve you.

Every time you close this door, you bring in Divine light, wisdom, and love, which is what you truly are.

Unlike in yogic traditions, there’s no requirement to adopt any extreme postures or gestures.

However, it’s better if you make a circle with your thumbs and forefingers as you interlock them (like an infinity symbol). 

Your fingers will then (automatically) want to alternately lock into each other.

If, however, you’re in the habit of performing yogic breathing exercises, then The Ha may easily be adapted to them.

The Ha, most likely predates ho’oponopono. It, undoubtedly, was part of other ceremonies. It is very old, and although simple, should be thought about reverently and received as a gift.

Breathing is a serious business, yet there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy performing The Ha. Indeed, it works best when you’ve learned to do so 😊