--- In [email protected], [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> In some of his writings, Win Wenger has observed an inverse
correlation between "intelligence" (whatever THAT is!) and breath
rate. In a FICTIONAL account, I read of a non-breathing entity who
possessed, largely because of the lack of distractions, what might
be termed an enhanced intellect. Obviously, there is more involved.
That a FICTIONAL account mentions what I have seen in one author's
factual account leads me to believe that there are other references
to this about. Anyone seen them and/or care to comment?
Jim,
I haven't seen them but do care to comment.
All of this does certainly depend on what you think 'intelligence'
is. You've indicated you do not really know; neither do I. Nor do
I know what the relationship between the brain and intelligence is.
If you think the brain is an EMENATOR of intelligence, then I would
tend to dismiss Win Wenger's fictional correlation. I would think
that a highly oxgenated blood supply (which is accomplished by
breathing)is a positive contributor to optimum brain activity. So
would a glucose-rich blood supply, higher-blood pressure; stimulants
and brain receptor enhancers like caffeine and cocaine; and a
variety of other external conditions that would allow the brain to
focus efficiently on the tasks at hand.
On the other hand if you think (like Aldous Huxley did) the function
of the brain is to FILTER the plethera of input we receive and only
present to our consciousness that which is necessary for our
physical survival, then Win Wenger's fictional correlation makes
some sense. Anything that would inhibit the brain's filtering
function would also help. Besides slowing of breath these can
include fasting (lowering of blood sugar), chanting (lowering of
oxygen levels in blood), self-flagellation (releases endorphins and
other hormones) and of course drugs (LSD, THC, etc...).
But as you know I don't place much importance on intellect and
intelligence in zen practice. I'll stick with zazen.
...Bill!
Current Book Discussion: Appreciate Your Life by Taizan Maezumi Roshi
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