what is breathwork?

Breathwork is a practice that involves conscious control of breathing patterns to influence physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It includes various techniques, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing, rhythmic breathing, and intentional breath holds, to help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance overall vitality.

what are the benefits of breathwork?

Breathwork offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• Stress & Anxiety Reduction – Helps calm the nervous system and lower cortisol levels.

• Increased Energy & Mental Clarity – Oxygenates the body, improving focus and alertness.

• Emotional Release & Healing – Aids in processing emotions and releasing stored trauma.

• Improved Physical Health – Strengthens lung capacity, improves circulation, and supports the immune system.

• Better Sleep & Relaxation – Helps reduce insomnia and promotes deep relaxation.

what are some pros of participating in the practice?

• Accessible to Everyone – No prior experience is needed, and it can be done anywhere.

• Customizable – Techniques can be tailored for relaxation, energy boosting, or emotional healing.

• Immediate Benefits – Unlike some wellness practices, breathwork provides noticeable effects in just one session.

• Enhances Other Practices – Works well in combination with yoga, meditation, and therapy.

• Scientific Backing – Studies show breathwork helps regulate the autonomic nervous system and improve mental well-being.

How does breathwork differ from meditation?

While meditation is a powerful mindfulness tool, breathwork can often produce faster and more noticeable effects because it directly influences the nervous system. Here’s why some people prefer breathwork over traditional meditation:

• Active vs. Passive – Breathwork is an active practice that helps quiet the mind through controlled breathing, whereas meditation often requires stillness, which can be challenging for beginners.

• Faster Results – Many people feel immediate shifts in their mood, energy, and mental clarity after a single breathwork session, whereas meditation can take longer to experience noticeable effects.

• Deeper Emotional Release – Breathwork facilitates emotional release through controlled breathing, making it a powerful tool for healing trauma and stored stress.

Meditation is often done in silence and in an upright seated position, while breathwork is done laying down and incorporates music.

How long is standard session?

A standard session is about 45-60 mins long.

What should I bring to a session?

Find a quiet, peaceful place with limited distractions during the breathwork session. You may bring anything that you find comfortable during this session. This may include a blanket, pillow, eye mask, or any other comfort item. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing.

how can breathwork help with weight loss?

In "The Oxygen Advantage," Patrick McKeown provides several pieces of evidence to support the claim that proper breathing can promote weight loss:

1. Metabolic Function: McKeown discusses how efficient nasal breathing increases oxygenation while balancing carbon dioxide levels, which can enhance metabolic efficiency. Improved metabolic function helps the body burn fat more effectively.

2. Stress Reduction: Proper breathing techniques can lower stress levels and reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone associated with weight gain. By managing stress through breath control, individuals can combat emotional eating and improve body composition.

3. Increased Physical Endurance: The book outlines how optimized breathing can improve athletic performance and endurance. Enhanced physical activity and better endurance can lead to increased calorie expenditure, further supporting weight loss efforts.

4. Diaphragmatic Breathing: McKeown highlights that diaphragmatic breathing improves lung capacity and efficiency, which can enhance overall exercise effectiveness. Engaging fully in physical activity contributes to calorie burning and weight management.

Want to learn more? Navigate our education section filled with more information, or if you are ready to dive in, check out our services page.