Breathwork is a practice that involves a series of breathing techniques to improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We recently sat down with Christina of Calm Peaceful Life, RN and certified Breathwork and meditation facilitator, to learn more about Breathwork and its benefits. Her search for tools to help cope with stress, anxiety, and depression, related to her demanding job in Orthopedic trauma surgery, led her to Breathwork and meditation. She's been practicing daily for seven years and was called to complete a teaching certificate and share her gifts with the community.
What is Breathwork?
Breathwork is consciously altering your breathing pattern to produce a positive physical, emotional, and energetic state. It is an active meditation which gives you an anchor to focus on. It's a fun way to meditate!
What are the benefits of practicing Breathwork?
We can do so much with just our breath! Improved sleep, anxiety reduction, pain management, and increased energy are just some of the benefits. Studies show that mindful breathing techniques activate the amygdala (the emotional regulation center of the brain), reducing negative emotions and stimulating positive changes in mood and cognition. Stress reduction occurs as we switch from the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight response) to the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest or the body's ability to relax). This is done by stimulating our vagus nerve (the main nerve of the parasympathetic system) with slow deep breaths, which in turn slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure. Utilizing diaphragmatic breathing (deep belly breaths) we can improve our digestion and stimulate our organs to improve function. Always consult your doctor about starting Breathwork with preexisting conditions, such as heart and lung disease. Some health issues (especially increased pulmonary pressure) may make some breath holds unsafe. And always listen to your body if you experience discomfort.
Who can benefit from Breathwork?
Everyone can benefit from Breathwork! It's especially helpful for those currently feeling stressed or anxious, experiencing difficulty sleeping, or those in need of emotional balance. Beginning a Breathwork practice can improve your overall health and well-being.
How has Breathwork impacted your life?
Breathwork has completely changed my life! I was feeling very unhappy, stressed, anxious, tired, and struggling to get through my days. Obviously that does not make for a great caregiver. With these methods I have experienced tremendous growth. My spirit is energized and my emotions are uplifted. I learned to create happiness for myself by being present and rewiring my thought patterns. The journey has been beautiful and is ongoing! I use Breathwork to energize myself and clear my mind on the drive to work. I utilize it to wind down to go to sleep. I do intensive deep dives of Breathwork and meditation for big decisions, celebrations, or just for fun! During my classes I ask my students to rate themselves on how they feel when they walk in and when they finish. I am proud to say not one person has not improved their feelings rating!
What is a typical Breathwork meditation experience?
Each class contains an element of mindful presence. We work slowly into different pranayama techniques. I may add gentle movement or a Kundalini Yogic breath to create the energetic state desired. The active breaths are usually around a half hour of the class as it really is work! Then we do a guided meditation for around 10 minutes to seal and ground the energy. There is a short reflection period to share how we feel in the new energy.
What is your favorite Breathwork technique?
I love pranayama Breathwork and Kundalini yogic breath. I'm a results driven woman! Few things bring instant gratification, but with a three minute breath of fire (bellows breath), I can instantly shift myself from crabby and tired to awake and energetic. I have used a 10 count box breath for 10 minutes to halt a panic attack. These are functional tools that I never leave home without! You can do a 4/8 breath to relax anywhere and no one will ever know. I have cleared out all the old stories, stress, and limitations on my life due to Breathwork and meditation. I now have enough space and extra energy to pursue my Holistic Nursing Certification. Through understanding the science behind Breathwork and incorporating it into your daily routine, you can experience the many benefits that this practice has to offer. Breathwork is a powerful tool that can be used to enhance well-being and promote overall health!
Thank you for taking time to share your beautiful insights and journey with us! Check out Christina's upcoming Breathwork offerings here at Angelic Roots!
