Frequently Asked Questions
When people ask me what I do, they are always curious to know more when I tell them I am a Breathwork and Trauma Recovery Specialist. I receive all sorts of questions about my work, and these are some of the most frequently asked ones.
What is Breathwork?
Breathwork is a profound healing and coping method based on our own breathing patterns. It is an innate skill possessed by every human being that is easily accessible and immediately beneficial. The way we breathe reflects the way we live, and if we learn to utilize this built-in mechanism, we can naturally sooth anxiety and symptoms of stress and overwhelm.
Is Breathwork a spiritual practice?
Breathwork can be part of a person's spirituality and has been referenced for centuries in many of the most ancient teachings across cultures. While we can utilize this modality in spiritual practices, that is not its sole purpose. Breathwork provides a multitude of practical benefits for physical, mental, emotional health and wellness, as well.
How are Breathwork and Trauma Recovery related?
Trauma has seemingly endless ways in which it can manifest in a person's life. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder are diagnosed when specific symptoms are present and most of them have a direct impact on the nervous system, which is in charge of regulating all of the body's systems. The breath has the ability to regulate our emotions, process memories, thoughts + beliefs, and nervous system overall, making it one of the most direct healing and coping techniques to exist.
What can be addressed in our sessions and programs?
A portion of the population I work with are survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, substance-use addiction and recovery, and childhood trauma. Every trauma is valid and can be addressed to process and work with. While trauma can be a principal reason for accessing these services, many individuals are seeking spiritual growth, physical healing, lifestyle upgrades, holistic wellness, relationship improvements, and another myriad of reasons. There is a session for every need.
Is there a certain age that Breathwork is appropriate for?
Since we are all born with this natural capacity to breathe and self-regulate, the earlier we can learn this skill, the better. I have taught my own children to use Breathwork since they were babies, and my youngest client was 4 years old. There is no age limit for this practice and it is adaptable to anyone's needs.
What benefits can be expected?
Benefits of Breathwork and/or Trauma Recovery can include but are not limited to: improvements in sleep, diminishing headaches, nightmares stopping, emotional regulation, improved confidence, self-love and respect, processing past trauma, improved coping skills, relationships, physical health, anxiety and depression. These are just some of the improvements we see regularly.