Conscious Breathing

The Benefits of Conscious Breathing

Studies have shown that we breathe approximately 20,000 times a day, but most of us don’t breathe properly or deeply. We take shallow breaths that can lead to depression and anxiety. No one teaches us how to breathe from our belly outside of yoga classes. However, abdominal breathing promotes inner peace and immediately calms us down as we bring more oxygen into our bodies. It also connects us to our inner truth. The answers lie within us; we just need to access them. Deep breathing creates a real physiological change by restoring the balance between consciousness and the unconscious, while rebalancing the sympathetic (fight/flight) and parasympathetic (rest/heal) nervous systems. This breathing exercise releases oxytocin while managing and soothing cortisol. Abdominal breathing dissipates blocked energy and stress, creating space for solutions, inspiration, and hope. The benefits of this simple and safe practice are numerous and often felt immediately.

Conscious breathing can help to...

– Improve the functioning of all organs as the body gets oxygenated and the diaphragm massages the stomach, small intestine, liver, pancreas, and heart. It enhances memory and digestion, reduces fatigue, and promotes better sleep.

– Facilitate the detoxification process by stimulating the lymphatic system, which eliminates carbon monoxide that needs to be completely expelled. Breathing allows for 70% of toxins to be eliminated from the body (the remaining 30% is excreted through the bladder and intestines).

– Strengthen immunity by elevating the pH to an alkaline state, increasing the body’s ability to kill bacteria.

– Improve endurance and physical performance by allowing oxygen to reach the deepest parts of the lungs, the alveoli, which nourish the muscles. When muscles lack oxygen, lactic acid accumulates, causing temporary cramps and muscle pain.

– Increase energy by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps relax overworked adrenal glands. Oxygen provides 90% of the body’s energy.

– Reduce stress and induce calmness by controlled stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system through mouth breathing, followed by deliberate activation of the parasympathetic nervous system through natural nose breathing for at least 10 minutes.

– Bring clarity, focus, and/or relaxation by allowing the brain to relax during the session and release emotions. The carbon dioxide level in the blood decreases, reducing the flow of oxygen to the brain. The frontal (analytical, intellectual) part of the brain goes into standby mode to allow the subconscious to work. This is called “transient hyperfrontality.” People may experience euphoria, a sense of invincibility, a reduction in discomfort, and even a loss of the sense of time, physiologically similar to “runner’s high.”

The Practice of Conscious Breathing

Conscious breathing is practiced fully clothed, lying on your back, while listening to loud music that helps motivate, relax, and release anything that is blocked. It is a powerful and often profound exercise. At first, it may seem challenging, but after a while, you almost feel intoxicated by your own energy. This voluntary mouth hyperventilation changes the blood flow, reduces carbon dioxide levels, and can lead to intense physical and emotional release.It is normal to experience unusual physical sensations such as tingling, dizziness, shivers, or cramps. Involuntary crying or laughter may also occur. Some people may experience tetany, cramps, or muscle spasms in their hands, feet, or face due to blocked energy related to anger caused by past traumas. This can also be due to too vigorous exhalation or a deficiency of magnesium, potassium, or sodium in your body. I remind my students that they can stop theactive mouth breathing and return to natural nose breathing at any time. Belly breathing releases blocked energy. It is an intense experience on the physical, mental, and emotional levels. Emotions flow freely, creating a pathway for the mind. For an effective session, it is recommended to practice for at least 18 minutes, with the sole intention of rediscovering ourselves through our breath.

Is Breathwork Suitable for Everyone?

Breathwork is for you if you want to release stress, improve your physical and mental endurance, and/or simply live a better life. My classes are open to individuals aged 14 to 82. However, Breathwork is not recommended for certain individuals as the two-step breath can lead to intense physical and emotional release. This technique can be compared to a high-intensity workout session. If your doctor has advised against engaging in this type of activity or if you have health issues that may be exacerbated by intense breathwork, it is best NOT to attempt Breathwork. Please contact me directly so that I can suggest a suitable breathing technique. After discussing your situation, it's possible that we may discover you can participate at a slower pace, and I will be there to monitor you.Please consult your doctor or talk to me in advance if you have any of the following conditions: - History of cardiovascular diseases, including angina or a heart attack, high blood pressure, glaucoma, retinal detachment, or severe osteoporosis. - Recent physical injuries or major surgical operations. - Severe mental illness, epileptic disorders, or if you are on heavy medication. - Personal or family history of aneurysm. - Pregnancy. - Asthma. Bring your inhaler.

What to Know Before the Session

I suggest avoiding eating within two hours before the session. If you eat before Breathwork, the blood will be directed to the stomach for digestion, preventing access to these non-ordinary states. I also recommend refraining from alcohol or psychoactive substances before or during the session. Wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows for free movement. Bring a water bottle and a yoga mat if you have one. Be prepared to let go and open yourself to the experience.I have been trained and certified by Susan Oubari Breathe in Paris in 2023.