Among smokers, a variety of visual stunts and
"tricks" have evolved over time, often shared in social settings. One
of the most visually striking is known as the "Dragon Smoke Trick" or
"Dragon's Breath." It creates the illusion of smoke billowing
simultaneously from the nose and mouth, resembling a mythical dragon exhaling.
While impressive to watch when executed correctly, it's a
technique that requires practice and carries the inherent health risks
associated with smoking, potentially amplified by holding smoke.
What is the Dragon Smoke Trick?
The core effect of the Dragon Smoke Trick is to release
streams of smoke from both nostrils and a larger stream or cloud from the mouth
at the same time. This creates a dramatic, multi-directional exhale that earns
the "dragon" moniker.
How to Attempt the Dragon Smoke Trick (Proceed with
Caution):
Performing this trick involves a specific manipulation of
inhaled smoke and controlled exhalation. Here's a general outline of the steps
involved. Remember, this requires practice and may cause discomfort, coughing,
or dizziness.
- Take
a Deep Drag: Inhale a significant amount of smoke from the
cigarette.
- Hold
the Smoke (Crucially): This is where variations exist and comfort
levels differ.
- Method
A (Mouth/Upper Throat Hold): The most common method for
the visual trick involves holding the smoke primarily in
your mouth and upper throat, without necessarily drawing it deep into the
lungs. This keeps the smoke cooler and easier to control for short
periods.
- Method
B (Brief Lung Hold): Some smokers might briefly draw the smoke
deeper into the lungs, but this is harder to control for the trick's
specific release and is generally more irritating and risky. The
mouth/upper throat hold is typically preferred just for
the trick's visual effect.
- Prepare
for Release: While holding the smoke (in your mouth/upper
throat), close your mouth or keep it slightly open and form a loose
"O" shape with your lips.
- Simultaneous
Exhale: This is the key step.
- Simultaneously
exhale slowly and steadily through both
your nose and your mouth.
- The
smoke held in your mouth/throat should be pushed out through the mouth
opening.
- At
the same time, gently force some of the smoke up through your nasal
passages to exit the nostrils.
- Control
the Flow: The trick looks best when the smoke streams are
controlled and relatively dense. This requires practicing the speed and
force of your exhalation from both openings. Too fast and the smoke
dissipates; too slow and it just trickles out.
Tips for Practicing (Again, Use Extreme Caution):
- Practice
in Still Air: Drafts and wind will ruin the effect instantly.
- Use
Enough Smoke: A small amount of smoke won't create defined
streams.
- Control
Your Breath: The exhale must be slow, steady, and simultaneous.
- Mirror
Practice: Watch yourself in a mirror to see how the smoke is
exiting and adjust accordingly.
- Patience: Like
any trick, it takes time and repetition to master.
