How Does It Work?

Our breath is directly connected to our nervous system, emotions, and mind. When we feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, our breaths tend to become shallow or irregular, which can increase stress and tension. By consciously changing the way we breathe, we can influence our body’s response, calm our mind, and shift our emotions.

Breathwork techniques often involve deep, slow, or rhythmic breathing patterns, and can sometimes include holding or pausing between breaths. These patterns help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for our “rest and digest” state, promoting calmness and relaxation.

Breathwork Techniques

Some common breathwork techniques include:

• Box Breathing — This involves inhaling for a specific count, holding the breath for the same count, and exhaling for the same count, repeating the cycle
• 4-7-8 Breathing — Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. This usually involves making a “wooshing” sound. 
• Alternate Nostril Breathing — This technique involves alternating breathing through each nostril by keeping one nostril closed while breathing through the other. 
• Diaphragmatic Breathing — Also known as belly breathing, this technique involves breathing deeply from the diaphragm, allowing the abdomen to rise and fall with each inhale. 

Make an appointment with our Breathworker at Salt of Earth Spa, and they can help guide you through these techniques and help you find what works best for you. 

Why Practice Breathwork?

Breathwork has several benefits, including:

• Stress Reduction — Conscious breathing helps reduce the body’s stress response, induces a sense of calm, and lowers a person’s “fight or flight” mode.
• Emotional Release — Breathwork can help release built-up emotional tension, making it easier to process difficult feelings. It can also help you have better control over emotional responses.
• Improved Focus and Clarity — By calming the mind, breathwork can help improve mental clarity, focus, and concentration. This is especially helpful for people who struggle with focus and attention due to stress or mental health conditions, such as ADHD.
• Enhanced Energy — Some breathwork techniques can invigorate the body and boost energy levels. They can also help regulate your nervous system and promote relaxation, helping you sleep better.
• Self-Healing — Breathwork is often used as a tool for personal growth, healing trauma, and cultivating a deeper connection to oneself. This is especially helpful for those who struggle with PTSD.
• Strengthening the Immune System — Breathwork can reduce stress, which in turn improves immune function. It can also lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation, which can strengthen the body’s natural defenses against illness.

When to Use Breathwork

Breathwork can be used in various situations, such as:

During Stress or Anxiety — Use breathwork to calm your mind and body, regain emotional balance, and release tension. If you’re about to experience a stressful event, breathwork can help you feel grounded and prepared. 

Before Meditation — Conscious breathing can quiet the mind and prepare the body for a deeper meditative experience.

For Healing —  Breathwork can help you process and release emotional or physical blockages from the body

Before Sleep — Deep, slow breathing can help relax your body and mind, preparing you for a restful night’s sleep. 

In Everyday Life —- You can use breathing techniques daily to maintain mental clarity, emotional well-being, increase energy and focus, and positively affect your overall physical and mental health. 

If you are interested in learning more about breathwork or want to begin healing with our Breathworker, contact us. We are excited to help you on your journey to a better you.