WHAT IS SOMATIC BREATHWORK?
Somatic breathwork is a therapeutic practice that uses intentional breathing techniques to release tension, reduce stress, uplift mood and promote healing in the body and mind. It works by tapping into one of our most basic and powerful systems—the respiratory system, by connecting the breath to physical sensations and emotions, helping to release stored trauma and unhealthy patterns. Somatic breathwork encourages a deeper sense of relaxation, emotional balance, and overall wellbeing. This style of breathwork is proven to deliver a dose of intermittent hypoxia and feel good hormones - dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins.
​Somatic breathwork has many benefits:
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Relaxation: On the surface level, intentional breathing helps calm the nervous system and relax the body. These effects are temporary but very beneficial. This style of breathwork is proven to dramatically reduce stress and anxiety, as well as lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and helping with chronic pain.
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Subconscious: As with hypnotherapy, this style of breathwork enables direct access to the subconscious, allowing a client to become more open to positive suggestions and changes.
By addressing deeply rooted beliefs, emotions, and behaviour's, clients can reframe negative thought patterns, overcome fears, and create healthier habits. This can be used to manage stress, break addictions, improve self-confidence.
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Cambridge University recently completed research on this style of breathwork with the following key findings: The study found that breathwork-induced positive, psychedelic-like experiences, as well as a richer and more diverse brain activity. Participants reported heightened states of bliss, insightfulness, and spiritual experiences. Over the course of the study, participants experienced a decrease in negative physical and mental states, such as anxiety and stress.
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​As a breathwork practitioner, my role is to create a safe space for exploration, helping my clients gently confront and process their trauma, release blocked emotions, gain clarity, and ultimately take the direct path to deep healing and transformation.
Healing: On a deeper level, this style of breathwork can release layers of trauma stored in the body, leading to permanent healing. For this deeper work, you might benefit from guidance by a trained practitioner in a one-on-one or group setting.
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This practice is supported by scientific research in fields such as neuroscience, psychology, and somatics. Studies have shown that intentional breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and improving emotional regulation. Renowned researchers, including Dr. Stephen Porges (Polyvagal Theory) and Dr. Bessel van der Kolk (author of The Body Keeps the Score), have highlighted how breathwork plays a key role in healing trauma and improving nervous system regulation.
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