What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever been curious about breathwork, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into one specific type known as conscious connected breathwork, often referred to as psychedelic breathwork or circular breathing.
The main focus of this blog post is to answer some frequently asked questions. So if you’re on the edge of trying breathwork, keep reading to find out what you need to know!
Who Am I?
My name is Melinda, and I’m a dedicated pranayama and breathwork teacher with formal training in various respiratory techniques. My role is to assist people on their transformative journeys, whether through one-on-one sessions, group classes, or workshops. If you’re interested in participating in a session, click here —I would be honored to guide you >>>
What Are the Different Types of Breathwork?
Breathwork encompasses a variety of techniques, and it’s crucial to differentiate between them.
While pranayama comes from the yogic tradition and primarily focuses on nostril breathing, conscious connected breathwork (CCB) involves mouth breathing and can lead to different emotional and psychological experiences.
CCB opens access to different levels of consciousness in a short amount of time, allowing for emotional release and awareness of suppressed memories. This modality is powerful for transformation, but it’s also essential to approach it with caution.
What to Expect in a Conscious Connected Breathwork Session?
Conscious Connected Breathwork sessions can be intense, yet transformative. Here are some common questions and concerns about this practice.
- Will I experience any physical sensations?
Many participants report sensations like tingling, warmth, or even muscle cramps. Muscle cramps can occur due to the rapid breathing, which can alter carbon dioxide levels and the body’s acid-base balance. Don’t worry! You can adjust your breath if you feel discomfort. - What If I’m Scared?
Feeling scared before trying breathwork is a normal reaction, often stemming from fear of the unknown. Ask yourself what specifically makes you anxious. It’s essential to distinguish between fear and excitement, as these feelings can sometimes intertwine.
If you approach breathwork with fear, consider first addressing that fear. You may surprise yourself. - What If I Lose Control?
Many people worry about losing control during breathwork. But here’s the thing: losing control in this context can be liberating. Breathwork is about releasing stuck energy and emotions, something we often don’t allow ourselves to do in everyday life.
During a session, you might feel sensations that are foreign or uncomfortable. This can include physical reactions like cramps or emotional releases, such as tears. These experiences are often part of the process.
What Happens During Breathwork?
While breathwork can lead to a range of experiences, let’s explore what generally happens during a session:
- The Breath Pattern: You will be taught a specific breathing technique, usually involving inhaling and exhaling through the mouth. This breathing pattern is often more intense than what you’re used to, which can be challenging at first. However, many participants find that after a while, they ease into it and even enter a trance-like state.
- Physical Reactions: As your body adapts to the increased oxygen levels, you may experience physical sensations like cramping or numbness. These are normal reactions as your body processes the intense breathing.
- Emotional Releases: Breathwork can unlock suppressed emotions. You may cry, laugh, or even vocalize in ways you wouldn’t typically do. It’s a safe space to express yourself.
- Time Distortion: Many people report losing track of time during breathwork. What may feel like mere minutes could turn into an hour or more as you enter a different state of consciousness.
What to Do After a Breathwork Session?
After a breathwork session, it’s crucial to take care of yourself. Here are some tips on what to do next:
- Take It Easy: Directly after your session, avoid jumping into a hectic environment. Instead, honor the work you’ve done and allow yourself to rest.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover. This is especially important after an intense breathing session.
- Avoid Heavy Foods: Try to steer clear of heavy or processed foods for a while. Opt for lighter meals that nourish your body.
- Reflect: Take time to process your experience. Whether through journaling, voice memos, or a quiet reflection, honor what you felt and discovered during the session.
- Connect: If you feel the need to share your experience, reach out to your facilitator or fellow participants. Sometimes discussing your feelings can aid in integration.
Trust the Breathwork Process
One of the key takeaways from breathwork is to trust the process. Everyone’s journey is unique, and what you experience during your sessions is valid.
I remember my first breathwork session; it was relatively uneventful. I felt relaxed but not much else. However, during my second session, I encountered my inner child and was overwhelmed with emotions.
If you’re curious about experiencing breathwork for yourself, I invite you to join my upcoming sessions! Click here to find out more>>>
Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below—what has your journey been like?