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This article is an excerpt from a handout used in our Healing Arts Seminars and Bodyworks Program
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Min Zin and the Salutation Ritual, By Anthony Sell
In Letha Yoga, there are two practices that are essential for creating a positive effect in the Recipient. The meditative aspect of Yoga is known as Pranayama, which roughly translated from Sanskrit means controlled or directed breath. In Letha Yoga this is referred to as Min Zin, which in Burmese means Disciplined Intention.
The first practice learned in Min Zin is the Dumo Breath. Simply put, this is a practice of bio-feedback, in which we learn through visualization to affect the temperature of our hands. The goal is to generate heat in our palms consistently, at will. This requires some concentration and practice, but is very important for effective healing.
In Latin, the root of the word "Therapy" refers to "Heat." Historically, the presence of heat is known to be therapeutic, and the lack of heat is often seen as a symptom of illness or injury. Once we develop this skill, we can begin to truly benefit others.
In Letha Yoga, before any manipulation is done, the Practitioner performs what is known as the Salutation Ritual. This is a way of introducing the touch of the Practitioner to the body of the Recipient. Effectively, we palm the area of the body we will be working on. This allows them to calm down and serves to communicate our concern for their well-being. When we palm the body, we focus on our Min Zin and wait until we feel a pulsing in the part of the body we are touching. This signifies a point of acceptance, after which effective manipulation can begin.