Lungs

The lungs take up oxygen from the inhaled air and give off carbon dioxide. With their huge inner surface they are our most important organ of exchange with the environment. At the Kyborg Institute we consider breath and lungs additionally on a soul-related level, expressly as a personal, worldview-based view.

Our reading

In our reading, breathing hangs closely together with life force. Many people breathe only shallowly – a small fraction of the possible amount. Shallow breathing we read as an attempt to shield oneself from strains; stress reinforces it. Deep, conscious breathing, by contrast, stands for us for aliveness and expanse (see pranayama). An inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia) we read symbolically as an expression of great inner unrest. These are pictorial suggestions, no claims about causes.

Smoking

That smoking is a recognised, essential risk factor for serious lung illnesses is medically well established. From our view, constant smoking moreover contradicts human nature – we understand it rather as a ritual against inner unrest than as a real gain (see tobacco, drugs).

What does that mean in practice?

• Have breathing complaints, a persistent cough or serious lung illnesses clarified by a doctor and treated.
• Practise breathing consciously deep and calm; see to fresh air.
• Look at your own handling of stress and “shielding”.

Note: This article renders a personal, worldview-based view and is not medical advice. It replaces no medical diagnosis or treatment. For health questions please turn to a doctor or pharmacy; do not discontinue prescribed medication on your own initiative.

Autor: D. Harald Alke