Hara

In the Japanese Martial Arts and in Japanese culture and philosophy in general, Hara is the centre of the soul or the repository of life force (Ki located in the abdominal region (2 inches below the navel). When using correct breathing techniques (Kokyu Ho), breath drawn in should first expand the abdomen before filling up the chest cavity, this is Hara. This is the origin of the legendary form of ritual suicide performed in ancient times by Samurai known as Hara kiri (belly cutting). The idea was that by opening his Belly the Samurai was thus freeing his soul.