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Authentic Self
Breathwork
Welcome to
Authentic Self Breathwork® attempts to bridge the gap between mind and body. Each session is a powerful combination of rapid, rhythmic breathing, evocative music, and a safe setting, specifically designed to access deeper realms of consciousness, and to take you to the next level of self- exploration, growth and healing.
The Technique
The breathing pattern of prolonged periods of rapid, conscious, controlled rhythmic breathing is used to induce non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC). These altered states are characterized by heightened emotional experiences, vivid imagery, and a sense of connection to something beyond oneself. This breathing technique increases blood oxygen levels, while decreasing carbon dioxide.
What is Breathwork
Breathwork is a broad term encompassing a wide range of breathing techniques that have been practiced for thousands of years across different cultures. The breathwork I facilitate is rooted in the work of Stanislav and Christina Grof (Holotropic Breathwork) and has been adapted by Michael Stone (Institute for Neurodynamic Breathwork).
"Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts.” ​
Thich Nhat Hanh
Neuroscientific Perspective
Breathwork connects the mind and body, serving as a bridge between the unconscious and conscious mind. The CO2 reduction, caused by the breathing technique, stimulates chemoreceptors in the brainstem, leading to decreased activity in the Default Mode Network (DMN)—the brain region associated with self-identity and ego constructs.
In turn, this increases activity in the limbic system, the brain’s emotional processing center (Grof, S. & Grof, C., 1990, The Stormy Search for the Self), where suppressed emotions, memories, and traumas are stored. This process allows unconscious material to surface, fostering conscious recognition and deeper cognitive understanding. This heightened activity could explain the emotional catharsis and vivid imagery frequently reported by breathwork participants.
Enhance Self-Awareness
Entering an altered state of consciousness can promote introspection, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself. What in turn improves relationships in general - family, friends, work, spiritual.
Facilitate Spiritual Experiences
The sense of connection and transcendence reported by some participants may be linked to the decreased activity of the Default Mode Network (DMN), a brain network involved in self-identity.
Benefits
Breathing is connected to our nervous system. When we take a deep breath, we can trigger a change from our sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight mode) to parasympathetic nervous system (rest and relaxation). Although we cannot guarantee any specific result, people who practice breathwork claim a broad range of benefits.
Reduce Stress & Anxiety
Activation of the limbic system, along with potential emotional release, may help alleviate stress and anxiety (Grof, S. & Grof, C., 1990, The Stormy Search for the Self).
Physical benefits
Participants report lowered blood pressure, better sleep and relief of other symptoms frequently associated with stress and anxiety.
Potential Risks
Psychological Distress
Breathwork can resurface repressed emotions and trauma, leading to anxiety and emotional flashbacks. This is why having facilitators present is essential for support and guidance.