Airwaves
A Breathwork Blog by Breathing Space
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The Art of Integration: Embracing Your Story and Discovering Resilience
By embracing the full spectrum of our experiences – the joyful and the painful, the light and the shadow – we unlock a deeper understanding of ourselves. Integration isn't about erasing the difficult parts of our stories, but about weaving them into the rich tapestry of who we are. Through expressive arts, breathwork, and other transformative practices, we give ourselves the gift of self-compassion. We learn that challenges don't define us; instead, they shape the incredible resilience that resides within each of us.
Creating Inclusive Breathwork Spaces: Understanding Neurodivergent Needs
By understanding and thoughtfully addressing the needs of neurodivergent participants, we create breathwork spaces that are not only safer and more accessible but ultimately more welcoming for everyone. The accommodations that foster a sense of safety, understanding, and belonging for neurodivergent individuals are often the very elements that allow all people to tap into the transformative potential of breathwork more deeply.
The Polyvagal Theory: A Guide for Trauma Informed Breathwork
Our nervous system is astonishingly adaptable – it learns to keep us safe even in the most difficult circumstances. Sometimes, these survival strategies become less helpful over time, leaving us feeling stuck in patterns of stress, overwhelm, or disconnection. Polyvagal Theory, a framework that explores the impact of the vagus nerve on our emotional and physiological states, helps us understand these patterns, not as "brokenness," but as evidence of our body's incredible strength. This knowledge empowers breathwork facilitators to provide a compassionate, grounded space where clients can explore new options for regulation and well-being.
Autonomic Nervous System 101
As breathwork facilitators, understanding the ANS is crucial. Think of it as your body's internal control center, constantly regulating essential functions and responses (Porges, 2011). Let's dive into its key components to see how breathwork influences our well-being.