The Correct Method of Mindful Breathing Recollection of the Buddha (buddhānusmṛti)

When recollecting the Buddha (buddhānusmṛti), if the sound flows out beyond the chest cavity and the mouth, it means the breath is moving from the dantian to outside the body and beyond; this is a process of releasing breath. In that case, one cannot recite while inhaling, because the inhaled breath would clash with the sound stream of the recitation, making recitation impossible. One can only recite while exhaling; when inhaling, one should inhale single-mindedly, placing all attention on the process of inhalation—wherever the breath goes, attention should follow. In this way, the vital energy and blood flow smoothly, body and mind feel comfortable, and the mind settles into concentration very quickly. 

When inhaling, the breath enters through the nasal passages and goes all the way down into the dantian. If one's mental power is sufficient, one can let it reach the four limbs and every pore of the body, while at the same time attentively observing and feeling the bodily sensations. When exhaling, the breath released should be slight and gentle, because all the cells of the body carry out metabolism and expel waste gases; these waste gases are expelled through the pores all over the body—the pores can also breathe. 

The method of breathing while reciting the Buddha's name can unify mind and breath, harmonize body and mind, and promote the smooth flow of vital energy and blood. It leads quickly to concentration, deep concentration, and long periods of meditative absorption. Beginners in cultivating concentration should start from this method. For the specific method of recitation, please refer to the book Cultivating Concentration and Investigating Chan to Realize the Path.