Breathwork classes help students learn how to breathe in ways that promote mental, emotional and physical health. They are a form of meditation and yoga that involves using breath to accumulate energy and stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal and recharge itself.
Practicing breathwork classes exercises can strengthen lungs, rid them of stale air and support the diaphragm in returning to its role of aiding in breathing. The technique also helps relieve stress and anxiety and can lower blood pressure. However, it’s important to remember that breathing practices aren’t a substitute for professional medical and mental health treatment.
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When used correctly, holotropic breathing can quiet the inner critic, calm monkey mind, balance mood and bring peace to the heart. This controlled breathing technique allows the body to release emotions and connect with a deeper sense of self. However, it’s best done with a trained facilitator and shouldn’t be tried on your own.
While many of these techniques can feel uncomfortable, they are safe for most people. They can trigger a tingling sensation in the hands and jaw (called tetany) for beginners or those with a magnesium, calcium or iron deficiency, and may cause muscle tightness for people with chronic stress or trauma.
While practicing breathwork, it’s important to find a quiet and comfortable space away from kids, pets and distractions. It’s also important to not eat a meal before the session. It’s recommended to wear loose clothing and keep a blanket nearby in case your body temperature changes during the session.