What is conscious connected breath?

Breathing with awareness to flood the body with oxygen.(Prana, our life force)  Most of the time this is through an open mouth, but can sometimes be through the nose.

What should I expect?

Every experience is different for each individual during every single breathing occasion.  These are some common things many people experience.  

  • Your mouth and throat may get a bit dry.  Your body will adapt after some time. 

  • You will most likely feel a buzz or vibration within your body.  Most commonly from elbows to fingertips, but can be felt throughout your whole being.

  • You may get lightheaded.  This is why it is recommended to lay in a comfortable and safe place or be in a safe reclined position if seated.  Be very cautious if you need to get up for any reason during the breathing session.

  • You may receive Tetany, a tightening or cramping in certain areas of the body.(see below)

  • Emotions may come to the surface and you may experience crying, laughing, shaking or movement as a releasing or expression of these feelings.

What can conscious connected breath help with?

Conscious connected breath can help with an abundance of things we deal with in life.  One of the biggest is our overall health. The breath feeds our bodies with new and vibrant energy helping to boost our well-being, reduce our levels of stress and increase the strength of our immune system.  Just one conscious breath reduces stress dramatically. Imagine what 30 minutes to an hour or more of consciouse breathing can do to our stress levels. Breath even cleanses us, as upwards of 70% of the toxins in our body are released through breath, so we are constantly cleaning the body as we breath.(the other 30% is through excretion, urination and a small amount through sweat).  Conscious connected breath also helps with reducing ,and even sometimes curing, anxiety and ptsd, among many other stress related diseases. Breath is a beautiful and powerful way to help heal ourselves.

Is it Safe?

Yes, conscious connected breath is safe.  Not only is it safe, it is healing. Some contraindications exist and should be taken into consideration.  It is important that you check with your doctor if you are: taking prescription medication for heart disease or any mental illness, or if you have: Epilepsy or a complicated pregnancy.  It is recommended that if you have a contraindication to do your first breath session in person with a breathwork practitioner. After an in person experience you may decide to try an online format. 

Is it uncomfortable? 

Sometimes it can be uncomfortable if experiencing unknown emotions coming to the surface, but it’s important to keep breathing through these and release these feelings.  One may also get Tetany, which can sometimes be uncomfortable.(see below)

What is tetany?

Tetany is a slight cramping feeling that can take place due to the exchange of O2(oxygen) and CO2(carbon dioxide).  This can sometimes create discomfort as the muscles can feel tight. In some cases the hands will clench or the jaw and face muscles can tighten.  In extreme cases of Tetany there can be pain due to strong cramping. If Tetany starts to become painful, or uncomfortable simply slow the breath and the body will begin to regulate itself and relieve the Tetany.  A very helpful two minute video about breathing and Tetany below and linked here.

 
 

What should i do before?

Create a comfortable, quiet and safe space for breathing.(nest)  Simply using a yoga mat, your bed or couch to lay down. Avoid eating a big meal withing an hour before breathing. It is ok to eat, but let it be light, like some fruit or a smoothie. Drink some water to hydrate.

What should I do after? 

Move slowly taking your time.  Drink a glass of water. Enjoy the sensations from the breath.  Journal about your experience if inclined.

How do I prepare for an online breath class? 

Create a comfortable, quiet and safe space for breathing (nest). Simply a yoga mat, your bed or couch to lay down using pillows or bolsters to prop your head or legs to your comfort level.  Have your headphones and device set up and ready to go.

Have easy access to some water and possibly tissues. Have a blanket nearby in case you get cold.  Find a place to rest your device so the video is on you during the breath session.

Checklist:

  • Nest (see above)

  • Headphones

  • Device with video

  • Water

  • Blanket

What platform is used for online sessions?

Zoom is the platform for online sessions.  Simply download the Zoom app on your phone, tablet or laptop and create a free account.  From your device click on the link provided in the invitation to join or manually join the meeting by adding the meeting ID and Passcode.