Breathwork for Better Orgasms — Luminous Tantra examination

Eleven questions. Nine of eleven passes, and you can take it again as often as you like.

Why does the chapter call breath 'the bridge'?

It is the only bodily function controlled entirely by will It is the one autonomic function that is both automatic and voluntary It physically connects the lungs directly to the heart through the diaphragm It links one partner's body to the other partner's body
How does diaphragmatic breathing differ from typical chest breathing, according to the chapter?

It draws air only into the upper lobes of the lungs It is faster, and associated with alertness and chronic stress It is slower and deeper, and linked to parasympathetic activation It noticeably reduces the total amount of air taken in, at least in some cases
At roughly what breathing rate does the chapter say 'cardiac coherence' is produced?

About 2 breaths per minute, though not always About 12 to 20 breaths per minute About 5.5 to 6 breaths per minute About 30 breaths per minute
According to the chapter, what determines arousal pattern?

Choice of position Breath pattern Level of experience Time of day
What is the difference between a 'valley orgasm' and a 'peak orgasm'?

Valley is a sustained whole-body plateau; peak is a spike then resolution Valley orgasms are weaker experiences; peak orgasms are stronger ones Valley orgasms come from fast breathing; peak orgasms come from slow breathing Valley orgasms happen in solo practice; peak orgasms happen with a partner
In the Belly Breath Foundation, why is the exhale longer than the inhale?

It raises the heart rate slightly to provide more energy for the practice It is simply easier for beginners to count in this pattern It stores extra carbon dioxide in the body to build strength It activates the vagal brake, tilting toward parasympathetic dominance
What is the defining feature of connected breath?

Breathing only through the mouth, never the nose No pause between inhale and exhale, like a wheel Rapid, forceful exhales pushed out through the nose A long, deliberate hold after each full inhale
How is Breath of Fire used in tantric practice?

As an ignition that builds charge for slower breath to circulate As a complete replacement for all other breath practices As a quick way to bring a practice session to an end As a gentle, calming practice to be used before going to sleep at night
In the Microcosmic Orbit, which direction does energy travel on the inhale?

Inward from the crown down into the belly, though not always Down the front of the body to the perineum Outward from the heart to the palms of the hands Up the back of the spine, from perineum to crown
A practitioner cannot feel energy moving during the Microcosmic Orbit. What does the chapter advise?

Simply imagine it moving; imagination sensitises the body Breathe faster and harder in order to force the sensation, though not always Switch immediately to Breath of Fire to generate heat Stop the practice until sensation appears on its own
Why does the chapter encourage making sound during intimacy?

Sound mainly serves to signal to a partner that climax is getting near Sound is required by the rules of traditional tantric ritual Sound is a useful way to distract from uncomfortable sensations, at least in some cases Sound activates the vagus nerve and releases tension; silence dams energy