In his recent seminar, Vladimir introduced a very interesting concept.
The idea is to find a point of deeper relaxation in your breath.
You can then functionalize it and carry it into your movements and state.
You begin by observing your exhale.
An exhale is naturally relaxing, but if you feel your way through it with attention, you’ll notice a point where the relaxation deepens.
You get a kind of opening or dropping feeling inside.
This feeling can be applied in many ways, ranging from practical to profound.
It can feel like the brakes coming off, allowing for more ease and freedom of movement, or it can involve “letting go” of thoughts and emotions that are unhelpful.
The first step is to find that point in your exhale.
Then, try the exercise with tension, and you’ll notice that at this deeper point, the tension dissolves or is unconsciously “let go.”
Next, try to link this point to movement.
As you reach the point, take a few steps in any direction.
Try incorporating it into basic movements—squats, push-ups, sit-ups, etc. See if they feel different.
They should feel lighter and more effortless.
You can also take this concept into combat work, allowing movements and responses to flow unrestricted under pressure.
The key is to notice this feeling repeatedly, to the point where you know it so well that you can shortcut the preparation stages and even the breath itself, “conjuring” the correct feeling at will.
Once you understand this, you begin to realize that changes in your state are accessible at the speed of thought.
The nervous system works at an electric speed, so clearing your head, dissolving anger, releasing tension, or finding courage and confidence can all happen at the speed of a decision.
This really functionalizes it for everyday life, where you often don’t have time to step aside for preparation or breathing exercises.
Sometimes, you need to notice, adjust, and act in the moment.
Below is the video—I hope you find it useful.
All my very best,
Matt