FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is breathwork?
Breathwork is a broad term used to describe various techniques and practices that use conscious breathing to improve physical, mental and emotional well-being.
What are the benefits of breathwork?
The benefits of breathwork can vary per individual but some of the most common benefits can include:
Breathwork is a diverse and powerful practice that involves conscious control of one's breath for various purposes. The benefits of breathwork can vary depending on the specific technique used and the individual's goals, but here are some common benefits associated with breathwork:
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Stress Reduction: Breathwork techniques like deep breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can activate the body's relaxation response, reducing stress and anxiety. It helps lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
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Improved Mental Clarity: Focused and mindful breathing can clear the mind, enhance concentration, and promote mental clarity. It can help reduce racing thoughts and improve decision-making.
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Emotional Regulation: Breathwork can help individuals manage their emotions by allowing them to pause, observe their feelings, and respond more skillfully to challenging situations. It can be especially helpful for emotional balance.
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Enhanced Energy: Certain breathwork practices, such as energizing breath or breath of fire, can increase energy levels, combat fatigue, and improve alertness.
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Better Sleep: Relaxation and deep breathing techniques can help individuals with sleep disorders or insomnia by promoting relaxation and creating a conducive environment for restful sleep.
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Improved Physical Health: Breathwork can support physical well-being by increasing lung capacity, improving oxygen circulation, and promoting better overall respiratory health. It may also help with pain management.
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Emotional Release: Some breathwork practices, can facilitate the release of repressed emotions, providing emotional catharsis and helping individuals process trauma or emotional wounds.
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Enhanced Creativity: Certain breathwork methods may stimulate creative thinking and enhance artistic expression by altering one's state of consciousness.
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Spiritual Exploration: Breathwork has been used in various spiritual and shamanic traditions to induce altered states of consciousness, facilitate spiritual experiences, and connect with higher states of awareness.
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Self-Exploration: Breathwork can serve as a tool for self-discovery, helping individuals explore their inner thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior.
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Improved Physical Performance: Athletes and performers may use breathwork to optimize their physical performance, increase endurance, and manage pre-competition anxiety.
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Enhanced Well-Being: Regular breathwork practice can contribute to an overall sense of well-being, promoting a feeling of calm, balance, and contentment.
It's important to note that while breathwork can offer numerous benefits, it should be practiced mindfully and with awareness of individual needs and limitations. It's also advisable to learn and practice under the guidance of an experienced instructor, especially for more advanced techniques. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions should consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new breathwork practice.
Which breathwork technique will be used?
There are many different types of breathwork.
For this event we will be using a combination of: Transcendental & Transformational Breathwork Techniques, Continuous Conscious Breathing, & Somatics. With a trauma informed approach.
How does breathwork work and how long before you see results?
Breathwork works by changing the way we breathe, which can influence the way we feel and think. By consciously controlling our breathing patterns, we can alter our physiological and psychological state, leading to a range of benefits.
Results are immediate from the very first session
Who can benefit from breathwork?
Breathwork can benefit anyone regardless of age. Participants report to be helpful for: stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and mental health, addictions amongst other benefits.
*Our live events however are for 18+.
How long does a breathwork session typically last?
Breathwork sessions can vary depending on the type of practice and the practitioner. Sessions can range from a few minutes to several hours. In this case it can be from 1hr-2hrs.
How often should I practice breathwork?
The frequency of breathwork practice can vary depending on individual needs and goals. Some people may benefit from daily practice, while others may feel called to practice once a week, once a month, quarterly, etc.
Do I need any special equipment to practice breathwork?
Up to you you can really do it any where using the resources you have available. While sitting, standing, laying, in nature, while walking. Listen to your intuition.
If you are attending one of our events you will need: A yoga mat, blanket, pillow, eye mask or eye cover, water bottle, journal.
Any recommendations 24hrs before the session?
If you do not have any health conditions preventing you from doing this: eat very light food, no red meats, no pork, no heavy food and a lot of liquids, soups, salads, no processed foods, no drugs (no marijuana), no alcohol.
Any recommendations the day of the session?
If you do not have any health conditions preventing you from doing this :
Try not to eat food for at least 1-4hrs before the session if you don't have any health contraindications, drink water. No coffee or energy drinks . The caffeine will stimulate your nervous system. Dress comfortable and avoid wearing eye makeup.
Any recommendations after the session?
Post session optional recommendation: Journal pen or pencil or use your phone (we encourage you to write down your experience either on your journal or use your phone for a voice note or typed note). Hydrate, eat and rest. Practice grounding, spend some time in nature. Reduce distractions and content consumption for a while. Allow space for integration.
***Complete the QAM Breathwork Integration Workbook***
What previous participants have experienced?
Miracles and Transformations, Oneness.
Clarity around relationships, money, spirituality, and more.
Decreased pain, inflammation, increased overall wellbeing.
Increased confidence, LOVE, joy, bliss, compassion, forgiveness, and much more.
Clarity in life, goals, ambitions, and mission.
Freedom, balance, trauma release.
Nervous system regulation.
Connection with the divine, and much more...
Breathwork, like any practice, can have both positive and negative effects it is all about perception but you can read more below:
Breathwork, like any practice, can have both positive and negative effects. While many people find breathwork to be a beneficial and transformative practice, it's essential to be aware of potential adverse effects and approach it mindfully. Here are some possible adverse effects of breathwork:
Physical Discomfort: Intense or rapid breathing patterns in some breathwork practices can lead to physical discomfort, such as dizziness, tingling sensations, or muscle tension. These sensations are usually temporary but can be uncomfortable.
Emotional Release: Breathwork can bring up suppressed emotions and memories. This emotional release can be therapeutic, but it can also be overwhelming for some individuals, leading to feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety.
Trauma Triggers: For individuals with a history of trauma, certain breathwork practices can potentially trigger traumatic memories or sensations. It's crucial to approach breathwork with trauma sensitivity and under the guidance of a trained professional when needed.
Energy Shifts: Some people may experience intense energy shifts or sensations during breathwork, which can be disorienting or confusing if not properly prepared for.
Unwanted Spiritual Experiences: In some cases, breathwork may induce unexpected or challenging spiritual experiences, which can be difficult to integrate into one's worldview.
Hyperventilation: If not done mindfully, certain types of breathwork can lead to hyperventilation, which can result in lightheadedness, confusion, or fainting.
Psychological Challenges: While breathwork can be a valuable tool for personal growth and self-discovery, it may also bring up psychological challenges that require additional support and processing.
To minimize adverse effects and maximize the benefits of breathwork, consider the following:
Guidance: Work with a qualified and experienced breathwork facilitator or instructor who can provide proper guidance and create a safe space for the practice.
Start Slowly: If you're new to breathwork, start with gentler and slower techniques before moving on to more advanced practices.
Set Intentions: Clearly define your intentions for the breathwork session to focus your experience and reduce the likelihood of unexpected emotional or psychological challenges.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your body's signals during the practice. If you feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed, slow down or stop the breathwork.
Integration: Take time to integrate your experiences after a breathwork session. Journaling, meditation, or discussions with a therapist or guide can help with integration.
Trauma Sensitivity: If you have a history of trauma, consider working with a therapist or trauma-informed practitioner who can adapt breathwork techniques to your specific needs.
Overall, breathwork can be a valuable tool for personal growth, healing, and self-awareness, but it's essential to approach it with awareness, respect, and the guidance of trained professionals when necessary. If you're considering breathwork and have concerns or a history of mental health issues, consult with a healthcare provider or therapist before starting a practice.
Breathwork can be a powerful practice, but it may not be suitable for everyone, especially individuals with certain medical conditions or specific contraindications.
Breathwork can be a powerful practice, but it may not be suitable for everyone, especially individuals with certain medical conditions or specific contraindications. Contraindications are factors or circumstances that make a particular therapy or practice inadvisable or potentially harmful. Here are some contraindications for breathwork:
***Please read our Liability Waiver and Release Form.***
Respiratory Conditions: Individuals with severe respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or acute bronchitis should approach breathwork with caution. Rapid or intense breathing patterns can exacerbate these conditions and lead to breathing difficulties.
Cardiovascular Conditions: People with certain heart conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, a recent heart attack, or a history of stroke, should avoid breathwork that involves forced or rapid breathing. Breathwork can affect blood pressure and heart rate, potentially causing cardiovascular issues.
Epilepsy: Breathwork techniques that induce altered states of consciousness can trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy. If you have epilepsy or a history of seizures, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting breathwork.
Pregnancy: Some breathwork practices involve deep or rapid breathing, which may affect oxygen levels in the body. Pregnant individuals should exercise caution and seek guidance from a healthcare provider before engaging in breathwork, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
Mental Health Conditions: People with certain mental health conditions, such as severe anxiety disorders, panic disorders, or schizophrenia, should be cautious when considering breathwork. Breathwork can intensify emotions and thoughts, potentially worsening these conditions.
Recent Surgery: Individuals who have undergone recent surgeries, especially abdominal or chest surgeries, should avoid breathwork practices that involve intense abdominal or chest breathing until they have fully healed and received clearance from their healthcare provider.
Medications: Some medications may interact with the physiological effects of breathwork. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you are taking medication and considering breathwork to ensure there are no adverse interactions.
Severe Physical Limitations: Individuals with severe physical limitations that affect their ability to control their breath or body movements may find some breathwork techniques challenging or inaccessible.
Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalances: Breathwork practices can lead to increased fluid loss and changes in electrolyte balance. Individuals who are dehydrated or have pre-existing electrolyte imbalances should be cautious and ensure proper hydration.
Lack of Proper Guidance: Engaging in advanced breathwork techniques without proper guidance or supervision, especially for beginners, can lead to adverse effects. It's advisable to work with a qualified breathwork facilitator or instructor who can provide instruction and support.
It's crucial to approach breathwork with mindfulness and respect for your individual health and circumstances. Before starting a breathwork practice, especially if you have any of the contraindications mentioned above, consult with a healthcare professional or medical provider to ensure that it is safe for you and to receive personalized guidance on the most suitable approach to breathwork.
What medical condition are not recommended to do breathwork?
Please read our Liability Waiver and Release Form.