What is Breathwork?

February 6th, 2009

Breathwork sessions are a powerful, yet gentle way to allow for deep personal healing and transformation.

Sessions are 2 hours long with the first part based in a process of inquiry – understanding where the client is coming from, what the client’s goals are, setting intentions and following up on progress in between sessions.

The second part of the session is the breathing practice. The client brings their awareness to the breath, focusing on a deep inhale, while directing the energy of the breath to the heart center. The exhale is relaxed, with no effort, allowing the client to “let go.” The inhale and exhale are connected, so there is no pause between the two – this circular style of breathing brings a lot of energy into the body.

The energy of the breath allows for healing on all levels. The body is replenished and refreshed with the increased oxygen. Deep emotional states can be attained, allowing for unexpressed emotion to arise and release. Guided by the practitioner we investigate these emotional states and our patterns of behavior to arrive at a deeper understanding and a deeper healing of ourselves.

I sometimes also hold acupressure points to help bring awareness back to the breath or to facilitate the movement of energy. I use simple eastern bodywork techniques from Zen Shiatsu and Tui Na – both very gentle in their application.

As the session comes to a close, the client is given time to bring their session to completion and to integrate the experience.

We recommend a series of ten sessions to allow for real transformation. Often times client and practitioner may meet once a week for the first few sessions and then every other week, or even once a month. This allows for the deep personal work to start and then continue to evolve with the client.

I am offering a sliding scale of $90 – $120 for a 2 hour session. I currently see clients on saturdays at my office in oakland on shattuck avenue. Feel free to call or email with any questions, or to setup an appointment.

contact info