There is more to breathing than you know.

Breath is one of the most powerful tools we have to regulate our nervous system and move through traumatic experiences. Trauma can have both physical and psychological effects on the body, creating sensations of tension and discomfort in our muscles, joints, and other bodily systems. Breathwork can help us navigate these sensations and support the somatic release of trauma, allowing us to heal and move forward.

Somatic support refers to the use of body movements, and awareness to regulate our nervous system and bring about a sense of well-being. The somatic approach recognises that our bodies and our minds are interconnected and that our physical experiences can have a profound impact on our emotional well-being. Somatic support can be especially helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can allow us to process and release the physical sensations that often accompany traumatic experiences.

The role of breath in somatic support is a key tool of healing and wellbeing. Breathing is an essential part of the somatic approach to trauma healing. Breathwork techniques can help us regulate our nervous system, bring awareness to our body, and release tension. Breathing exercises can help us move through difficult emotions, find grounding, and reconnect with our physical selves. Breathwork can also support the vagus nerve, which plays a critical role in our body's response to trauma. The vagus nerve is responsible for regulating our heart rate, digestion, and other essential bodily functions. When we experience trauma, this nerve can become dysregulated, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other symptoms.

By focusing on deep and intentional breathing, we can activate the vagus nerve and support its regulation. This can help us feel more grounded, relaxed, and at ease in our bodies. There are different types of breathwork for somatic support and a breathwork therapist can guide you through the correct breathing techniques for your needs, health, wellbeing and somatic healing. There are many different types of breathwork techniques that can support somatic release and trauma healing.

 Diaphragmatic breathing is a breathwork technique used in both yoga and meditation practices. This technique involves breathing deeply into the belly, allowing the diaphragm to expand fully. It can help calm the mind and body and reduce feelings of anxiety and tension.

Another technique and one that is deeply healing is   Alternate nostril breathing is a technique that involves inhaling and exhaling through alternate nostrils. This technique can help balance the nervous system, improve cognitive function, and reduce stress levels.

To energise the body and the nervous system the  Breath of Fire is a powerful breathwork technique that involves rapid, forceful exhalations through the nose. This technique can help release tension and stagnant energy in the body, allowing for a sense of release and rejuvenation after training in this technique it can be utilised to awaken, energise and fuel the mind, body and soul.

Another north of to help regulate the sympathetic system and the fight or flight sensation is  Box breathing, which involves inhaling for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of four, exhaling for a count of four, and holding the breath for a count of four. This technique can help regulate the nervous system, improve focus and concentration, and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

These are just a few techniques of breathwork that the therapist can utilise and has deeply trained within to elicit with client and bring about deep healing. Breathwork is often used in conjunction with other somatic therapies to facilitate trauma healing. These therapies may include movement, touch, or somatic experiencing techniques. The somatic approach to trauma healing recognises that trauma is not just a psychological issue but can have physical and sensory effects as well.

By using breathwork and other somatic techniques, we can access and release the physical and emotional sensations stored in the body. This can allow us to move through trauma in a more embodied and holistic way, healing both the physical and psychological aspects of our experience. Breathwork can also help us develop a greater sense of self-awareness and intuition, allowing us to tune into our bodies' signals of discomfort or trauma. This can help us better navigate difficult situations and avoid triggers that may lead to re-traumatization.

Breathwork can also support our ability to self-regulate, allowing us to manage our emotions and reactions more effectively. This can be especially helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can provide a sense of safety and control in situations that may otherwise feel overwhelming.

Breath is a powerful tool we have to support somatic release and trauma healing. By using breathwork techniques, we can regulate our nervous system, release physical tension and discomfort, and connect more deeply with our bodies. Breathwork can be particularly helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can allow us to move through difficult emotions and sensations in a more embodied and grounded way.

There are many different types of breathwork techniques available, and it's important to find the ones that work best for you and your unique needs. Whether you practice alone or with the guidance of a therapist, incorporating breathwork into your daily routine can be a powerful way to support your mental and physical well-being and move towards healing and growth.

If breathwork therapy is of interest within your healing toolkit and would like more information to see it it’s suitable for you, do book an insight call to discuss your personal situation and how breathwork therapy may help support you. 

If you feel you would like support, and you feel therapy may be the answer. I offer 15 minute free insight calls, for you to have the chance to discover how therapy might support you. Visit my website for more information. 

www.mindfulmomentstherapies.co.uk

Or email

enquiries@ mindfulmomentstherapies.co.uk

Call today for a new tomorrow.