What is Transformational Breathing? [Explained]

Can breathwork really transform your life? It's not something that we often think about, as it's an automatic function of the body. But, the way you breathe is integral to your health. Practicing techniques like Transformational Breath can have powerful healing effects on the body, mind and spirit. Let's get into how: 

_{What is Transformational Breath®?}

Transformational Breath® is the practice of bringing conscious awareness and control to your breath. Though breathwork has been practiced for thousands of years in ancient tradition, this particular technique was developed by Dr. Judith Kravitz in the 1970s.

The breathwork itself is a specific technique known as circular breath. Each inhale is taken in deeply through the mouth, then let go through the mouth without any effort in a circular pattern. This powerful technique is generally practiced under the guidance of a facilitator who combines; Kundalini yoga, sound healing and holotropic modalities to create what is known today as the Transformational Breath. 

_{How does Breathwork Heal?}

Transformational Breath will assist you in unearthing stored trauma in the subconscious mind. This greater awareness of your past will ultimately help you to heal and move on from emotional wounds. But how, you might be asking? 

When you participate in breathwork techniques you are oxygenating the brain and body, this has the flow on effect of activating the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the largest nerve in the body, it connects the brainstem to all of our major organs and is responsible for regulating emotion.

When stimulated through breathwork, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system putting the body into a relaxed and altered state of consciousness. Through this lens you may unearth trauma, confront behaviour that sabotages you and release stored stress, anxiety, tension and pain from the body. 

_{What Happens in a Transformational Breath Session?}

Transformational Breath is generally practiced with trained practitioners. During the session a facilitator will use sound frequencies, affirmations and gentle movement to encourage the breath and release stuck energy.

These sessions can last up to two hours and include: preparation time, setting intentions, practicing the breath and meditation. The breathwork portion of this time can go anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour which can be quite challenging at first. The facilitator may apply gentle pressure to the body and guide you with other instructions to help you release tension in the body. 

_{How to Do Transformational Breath Alone}

Though it is recommended to participate in a Transformational Breath guided session, breathwork is a self-healing modality that can be used at any time. We recommend starting with 5-10 minutes as this can be quite an intense experience. 

If you have any underlying conditions or concerns, please consult your health practitioner before trying this method. This is a powerful technique that may elicit a strong emotional response, so please ensure that you are mentally prepared before attempting this technique. Ensure that you tell someone before practicing and stop the practice if you feel dizzy or lightheaded at any stage. 

1. Set an intention before your session; what would you like to feel, understand or work on?
2. Set a soft alarm on your phone for 5 minutes & 10 minutes
3. Lie down flat on your back ensuring your spine is straight
4. Close your eyes 
5. Focus your attention on your natural breathing rhythm - follow the breath as you inhale and exhale, noticing the cold air touching the tip of your nose and feeling your abdomen expand and retract

Once you are relaxed, you are  ready to practice the Transformational Breath

1. Inhale deeply through the mouth and into the abdomen
2. At the end of your inhale, let the breath simply fall out of your mouth with no effort
3. Return to the deep inhale immediately with no pause  
4. Repeat this circular breath pattern for 5 minutes (it may be difficult to maintain at first and you may feel some resistance)
5. When your 5 minute alarm sounds lay in this new feeling for 5 more minutes 

_{Benefits of Transformational Breath}

The benefits of Transformational Breath are plenty. When practiced properly it has the potential to heal your body, mind and spirit in the following ways: 

_{Benefits to the Body} 

• Increases oxygenation of the brain and body
• Improves immunity
• Stimulates the vagus nerve
• Stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system
• Stimulates circulation 
• Increases energy

_{Benefits to the Mind}

• Alleviates stress
• Alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Increases awareness of self-destructive behaviour
• Cleanses past trauma
• Relieves negative emotions
• Improves self-esteem
• Increases gratitude

_{Benefits to the Spirit}

• Greater connection to yourself and others
• Greater connection to nature
• Deepens meditative states
• Expands awareness
• Opens third eye for greater intuition
• Increases awareness of joy and love 

_{Final Thoughts}

Transformational Breath is an incredible self-healing modality. For those suffering with negative thoughts, depression or anxiety this practice can help to identify the trauma that leads to self-destructive behaviour. Through this awareness the body is relieved of stored stress and anxiety leading to physical, emotional and spiritual transformation. We recommend that you practice this technique under the guidance of a facilitator for the best results.

If you've practiced the Transformational Breath technique, we'd love to hear your story! Contact us with how it helped to transform your life or if you have any questions.