COPING THROUGH BREATHWORK
We use our breath to nurture our body with oxygen and thrive. However, chronic stress can alter our body’s homeostasis by continuously firing off our fight or flight response. A hyperactive sympathetic nervous system puts strain on our adrenal glands, significantly increasing the levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, in our bloodstream which can lead to habitual shallow breathing, increased blood pressure, tightness in the chest, panic attacks and even burn out. Through breathwork, in other words, mindful controlled breathing, we are able to enhance our breath, lowering levels of stress and anxiety, and promoting inner balance.
"I was suffering from stress and insomnia, but after learning a proper breathing technique from Nadia, now I am able to sleep more soundly. I practiced it before going to sleep and it relaxed me immensely.
I would recommend this breathing technique to anyone who is experiencing stress or anxiety. Thank you Nadia!" - Shahana
WHAT IS BREATHWORK?
The breathwork taught is an ancient form of Yoga practice, originating in India, where breathing techniques, known as Pranayama, are used to nourish the mind and body, release tension and encourage personal wellness. The word Pranayama derives from prana meaning "vital life force", yama meaning control, and ayama meaning "expansion". In yogic teachings, it is believed that one can control the power of the mind and the flow of vital energy through regulated breath.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Breathwork forces us to focus on breathing. This affects the Central Nervous System (CNS) by settling down its "fight or flight" response and guiding the body back to a state of equilibrium.
Breathwork benefits include:
* reduced fear and anxiety
* a calm mind
* a stable stress response
* balanced emotions
* enhanced concentration
* boosted respiratory function
* improved sleep
* pain management
* facilitated healing
WHAT ABOUT THE BREATHWORK TRAINING?
In the training series, trainees will be coached on how to use controlled breathing as a natural coping tool to manage anxious thoughts, negative emotions, hectic lifestyles, and more. Prenatal trainees, on the other hand, will learn to master the yoga breath as a useful comfort measure to manage pain, promote focus and assist in the progression of labour. The overall training is gradual, consisting of four weekly sessions and/or daily breathwork audio tracks. In addition, trainees will:
* acquire the components of the three-part breathing technique and its breath count
* practice mindfulness and Yoga stretches that target respiratory muscles
* observe breathing patterns to heighten mind-body connection
THE BREATHWORK TRAINING AT A GLANCE:
"I have to say your breathing exercise really helped me to stay focused and to manage my pain during contractions. I guess it really worked because I delivered her in thirty-seven minutes!! So thank you again for teaching me the breathing techniques."
- Julie