Breathwork is breathing in a conscious and systematic way to help you let go of the negative feelings and emotions, and return to a more positive state of being. It is a tool that assists in providing more oxygen to the body and makes you feel more energized and rejuvenated. Although this technique is considered relatively new, breathing techniques have been used by people for thousands of years to promote relaxation. This breathing therapy has its roots in traditional practices of yoga and Tai Chi. Today you can find several breathing techniques that can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies like talk therapy, music, artwork, etc.
What are the benefits of Breathwork?
It benefits individuals in unusual ways. This technique allows people to make improvements in their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The benefits can include the following:
A positive self-image
Boosted self-awareness
Improved relationships
Enhanced immunity
Improved life skills
Balanced blood pressure
Better respiration
Clearance of stress hormones from the body
A regular deep sleep
Better mental focus
Increased creativity
Enhanced feelings of joy and happiness
Decreased stress and anxiety levels
Less negative thoughts and emotions
Overcoming addictions
Alkalizing blood pH
Feelings of contentment
Anti-inflammatory benefits
Certain conditions that Breathwork can help you with include:
Anxiety
Chronic pain and fatigue
Anger issues
Depression
Feelings of loss and grief
Emotional impacts of chronic physical illnesses
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Other forms of trauma
What should I expect from a Breathwork session?
A trained practitioner or therapist can deliver Breathwork individually or in group sessions. The session can last from 50 to 80 minutes. Your therapist will start the session by first asking about your goals and what you are looking to achieve. It will consist of a short conversation where you will provide the relevant history of your condition and the expected results. This brief consultation session can help your therapist to lay out an individualized Breathwork plan for you.
Common approaches that your therapist can choose to include:
Rebirthing Breathwork
Clarity Breathwork
Biodynamic Breathwork
Vivation
Integrative Breathwork
Shamanic Breathwork
Zen Yoga Breathwork
Transformational Breathwork
Next, you will move to the breathing part of the session
The therapist will guide you during this part and help you achieve the correct breathing pattern. They can also use music during this portion to help you focus on your breathing and bring calm and serenity to the environment. You might feel a particular sensation during your session. This feeling or sensation can differ for each individual, but some familiar sensations you can experience include tingling, vibrations, temperature changes, or feeling heavy or lightweight.
To close the session, the practitioner will again have a conversation with you to explore and reflect on your feelings. You will feel calm, relaxed, energized, and clear-minded at the end of a session.
It is recommended to take 5 to 10 sessions to get the most benefits. Once you have mastered the breathing patterns, you can continue to practice at home by yourself.
Different breathing techniques that you can follow can include the following:
Deep abdominal breathing
Box breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing
4-7-8 breathing
Continuous circular breathing
20 connected breaths
Breath of fire
Pursed lip breathing
Lion’s breath
Immersion in water
Alternate nostril breathing
It is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before starting Breathwork if you have any physical illnesses, especially respiratory conditions.
Conclusion
The benefits are numerous and wide-ranging. It is a simple yet effective method to make your quality of life better by promoting feelings of confidence and self-worth and aiding in physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
In case you have any medical illness or taking any medications, it is advised to consult your healthcare provider before trying Breathwork.
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