Breath work training is an amazing healing modality that offers its participants a chance to see beyond toxic patterns that keep them stuck in the same place for years. It can also help them access personal perspective and psychological insight to make positive changes in their lives that can impact how they feel about themselves and others.

It’s no wonder that breathwork is becoming increasingly popular around the world as a way to de-escalate, de-stress and reduce anxiety. In fact, it’s one of the most accessible wellness practices there is, since anyone can do it and can experience its benefits without a practitioner present. The most common form of breathwork is called diaphragmatic breathing, which involves breathing from the lower abdomen instead of the chest and engages a large muscle at the base of the lungs known as the diaphragm. This type of breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones, which in turn promotes a sense of calmness and wellbeing.

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In more advanced forms of breathwork, like holotropic breathing, the practice can be used to create altered states that facilitate the process of re-integrating and releasing trauma at all levels of the psyche. These states, developed by Grof, are based on his theory of transpersonal cartography that connects the psyche to perinatal memories in the womb and birthing experiences, as well as a variety of spiritual traditions around the world. These connections can trigger a powerful healing experience that’s akin to psychospiritual death and rebirth, which can help individuals move through life with more clarity and a greater sense of purpose and connection.