THE PHYSICAL.
This particular three-stage breathing pattern stimulates the autonomic and parasympathetic nervous system, forcing the body into a deeply relaxed state and making way for its intrinsic healing potential. The increased oxygen works through the body and blood system stimulating the vagus nerve and up to the brain, activating the hypothalamus and pituitary gland which are the links to our nervous system. Stimulating these systems instruct the body and mind to relax - the heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases and the active mind surrenders allowing the body to begin its natural process of regeneration. On a cellular level, we’re activating the organs of the cells that are responsible for releasing and transferring energy which makes way for the release of stuck energy, emotions, toxins and cellular memory.
THE SUBCONSCIOUS.
The combination of working with the neurobiological systems and our psychological mechanisms are what create the unique and profound environment for healing. When the brain is instructed to surpass our active mind, it relaxes into the regenerative brain wave frequencies of alpha, theta and delta. The deeper states (theta and delta) are the gateway to our intuition, memory and self-healing capacity. Our subconscious, which accounts for an estimated 90% of our thoughts, behaviors and emotions is accessed by reaching the theta state (which breathwork anchors us in). From this state, (and an understanding of why we hold on to our blocks) we’re able to reprogram our subconscious blocks and access the higher insight we need to embody our healing.
THE SPIRITUAL.
What I believe is also happening, is that we’re stimulating the pineal gland which is known as the ‘third eye’; linking the spiritual and physical worlds and connecting us to our source point for our etheric connection. When given the tools and understanding of how to access these higher states of consciousness and energy, you’re able to clearly connect with your soul, the other side and dimensions beyond our ‘veil’. It then becomes very common for people to be visited by loved ones who have transitioned or receive clear insight about their path during their breathwork experience.
With the active, thinking mind out of the way, a willingness to look within and the tools to access these pathways, quite literally anything becomes possible. Although everyone’s experience is different and each session unique, common results include relief from physical and emotional pain, release of stuck trauma, cellular memory, toxins and trapped energy, deep relaxation, heightened states of inner peace and improved immunity. Scroll down for more information about common affects of breathwork and how to enhance your personal practice.