Using Breathwork To alter states of consciousness

Breathwork has a rich and varied history, with roots in ancient Eastern practices such as yoga and pranayama. In the West, modern breathwork techniques have been developed in the last century, with pioneers such as Leonard Orr and Stanislav Grof. Breathwork has been used for a variety of purposes, including relaxation, stress reduction, and spiritual exploration. Today, breathwork continues to be a popular practice, with many different approaches and styles available to suit individual needs and preferences.

I personally find that breathwork is One of the best portals into the present moment. Presence is significant as once you become more present, your intuition becomes heightened and your awareness will expand. I prompted my mum to join me in my breathwork practice once. She has had very little meditation experience in the past and has found it quite difficult but she told me that it was as close as she has ever been to true meditative state. I find that with breathwork, the breath acts as a tool to anchor you into presence by giving you a rhythm to focus on that also tunes you into the awareness of your body.

Breathwork has been shown to have a powerful impact on consciousness. By controlling the breath, practitioners can alter their state of mind, inducing relaxation, reducing stress, and increasing feelings of well-being. In addition, many breathwork techniques are designed to help individuals access altered states of consciousness, which can be useful for personal growth and spiritual exploration. Some practitioners including myself have reported having profound mystical experiences while practicing breathwork. Breathwork offers a unique and powerful way to explore the mind and consciousness.

Breathwork encompasses a wide range of practices, so the specific steps will depend on the approach you choose. However, here are some general guidelines for a simple breathwork practice:

1. Find a quiet, comfortable place to practice.

2. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.

3. Begin by taking slow, deep breaths, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth.

4. Gradually increase the pace and intensity of your breathing, taking deep, rhythmic breaths.

5. Experiment with different breathing patterns, such as circular breathing, alternate nostril breathing, or breath retention.

6. Pay attention to how you feel as you breathe, and allow yourself to fully experience any physical or emotional sensations that arise.

7. When you're ready to end the practice, gradually slow your breathing back down to a normal pace, and take a few moments to rest and integrate your experience.

Remember to always listen to your body and adjust the practice as needed. It's also a good idea to work with a qualified breathwork practitioner if you're new to the practice or have any health concerns.

1-1 personalised meditation with Misia

Book Now