What is Breathwork? Your Complete Guide to Breathwork Therapy
Breathwork is a powerful healing practice that uses conscious breathing techniques to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. At The Safe Space in Edinburgh, we specialize in SOMA breathwork and trauma-informed somatic approaches.
Understanding Breathwork Therapy
Breathwork involves intentional breathing patterns that help you:
- Access altered states of consciousness
- Release stored emotions and trauma
- Activate your body's natural healing responses
- Connect with deeper parts of yourself
Unlike regular breathing, breathwork uses specific rhythms, depths, and patterns to create therapeutic change in your nervous system.
Types of Breathwork We Offer:
SOMA Breathwork
- Uses rhythmic breathing with music
- Focuses on trauma release and emotional healing
- Incorporates somatic movement and body awareness
- Safe, structured approach for beginners and experienced practitioners
Holotropic Breathwork
- Deeper, more intensive breathing practice
- Facilitates profound healing and transformation
- Includes movement, touch, and energy release
- Requires progression and preparation
Somatic Breathwork
- Combines breathing with body awareness
- Focuses on nervous system regulation
- Includes gentle movement and touch
- Perfect for trauma survivors and sensitive individuals
Who Can Benefit from Breathwork?
Breathwork is particularly helpful for:
- Anxiety and stress management
- Trauma recovery and PTSD
- Depression and emotional blocks
- ADHD and neurodivergent individuals
- Anyone seeking personal growth and healing
- People wanting to connect with their authentic selves
Breathwork supports:
- Busy professionals dealing with burnout
- Parents needing stress relief
- Anyone going through life transitions
- People seeking spiritual connection
- Those wanting to improve emotional regulation
What to Expect in Your First Breathwork Session:
Before Your Session:
- Avoid heavy meals 2-3 hours before
- Stay hydrated (but don't overdrink)
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing
- Complete health screening questionnaire
During Your Session (90 minutes):
- Introduction & Somatic Movement (15 mins)
- Gentle body awareness exercises
- Movement to connect with your body
- Heart Connection (15 mins)
- 2 Rounds of Coherent Breathwork
- Setting intentions for your session
- Breathwork Practice (45 mins)
- Guided Holotropic breathing with music
- Movement and sound encouraged
- Safe space for emotional release
- Integration & Restoration (15 mins)
- Deep relaxation and meditation
- Journaling and reflection time
After Your Session:
- Take time to rest and integrate
- Stay hydrated and eat nourishing food
- Journal about your experience
- Be gentle with yourself for 24-48 hours
Is Breathwork Safe?
Breathwork is generally safe when practiced with a qualified facilitator. However, certain conditions require medical clearance:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Recent heart surgery or serious cardiovascular issues
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Severe mental health episodes
Ready to Experience Breathwork?
Start your breathwork journey with The Safe Space in Edinburgh:
- 1:1 sessions for personalized attention
- Group classes for community connection
- Nature immersion for deeper healing
- Workshops for expanded experiences
