In its broadest sense, breathwork is a 20^th Century concept that describes any methodical manipulation of one’s breathing to improve psychological or physical well-being. The type of breathwork we offer is Consciously Connected Breathwork. Consciously Connected Breathwork relies on ‘intensifying the breath’, that is, breathing faster and deeper than usual. This causes physiological changes (e.g. a reduction of blood CO₂ levels), which in turn modulate brain activity, causing a wide range of effects from simple relaxation to intense altered states of consciousness.

These non-ordinary states of consciousness can support emotional processing, helping practitioners to (1) face challenging emotions like grief, anger and fear as well as trauma, and (2) expand their understanding of themselves through a process of unfiltered self-discovery, enhancing self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional openness. This works in part by lifting the control mechanisms that normally filter our conscious experience of our own feelings, perceptions, needs and memories.

Although in some ways, breathwork experiences can be similar to psychedelic states, the most important difference is that a breathwork session is always controlled directly by the breather. As such, an overwhelming experience can be stopped within minutes by returning to normal breathing.  Depending on the comfort levels of each client, support from us as facilitators can include bodywork, voicework and other interventions during the session, as well as preparation before and integration after the session.