The Science of Breathwork and how I integrate it into Reiki at Somatique in Boulder, CO

Breathwork is one of the simplest yet most profound tools we have for regulating the body and mind. It’s free, accessible, and rooted in centuries of wisdom across cultures. In recent years, modern science has begun to validate what ancient traditions have long known: the way we breathe has a powerful impact on our nervous system, emotional well-being, and even physical health.

In my sessions at Somatique, breathwork is a cornerstone practice. I integrate guided breathing exercises before and during your session to support deeper transformation. Let’s explore the science behind breathwork and how it supports the healing process.

The Science of Breathwork

1. Nervous System Regulation Our breathing directly impacts the autonomic nervous system, which governs the body’s stress and relaxation responses. Slow, controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, shifting the body from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.”
   

   Evidence:A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that slow breathing techniques reduce stress and improve heart rate variability (HRV), an indicator of resilience and nervous system health. (Laborde et al., 2018)
   

2. Reducing Anxiety and Depression Breathwork has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by decreasing cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increasing feelings of calm and well-being.
   

   Evidence:Research in the Journal of Clinical Psychology revealed that participants who practiced controlled breathing exercises experienced significant reductions in anxiety and improved emotional regulation. (Saoirse et al., 2020)
   

3. Enhanced Emotional Processing Breathing techniques can help release pent-up emotions and facilitate emotional processing. By slowing the breath and focusing on exhalation, individuals can access a sense of safety, allowing them to confront and release emotions that may be stored in the body.
   

   Evidence:A study in Psychophysiology highlighted that slow diaphragmatic breathing enhances connectivity between the brain's emotional regulation centers, aiding in emotional balance. (Critchley et al., 2016)
   

4. Improved Cognitive Function Breathwork doesn’t just calm the body—it also sharpens the mind. Practices like nasal breathing increase oxygen flow to the brain, supporting focus and cognitive clarity.
   

   Evidence:A study in The Journal of Neurophysiology demonstrated that intentional breathing enhances attention and cognitive performance by modulating brain wave activity. (Zaccaro et al., 2018)
   

How Breathwork is Integrated into Somatique Sessions

Breathwork is not a standalone practice in my sessions—it’s seamlessly woven into the flow of Reiki and somatic healing. Here’s how it works:

1. Preparation Before we begin, I guide you through a few simple breath exercises to center yourself. This might include slow diaphragmatic breathing to calm your nervous system or gentle alternate-nostril breathing to bring balance to your body and mind.
   

2. During the Session As we move through the Reiki session, I may prompt you to bring awareness to your breath or engage a specific breath practice, encouraging mindfulness and relaxation. For example, if I notice tension in your chest, I might guide you to breathe into that space, softening it and creating room for energy to shift. If an emotional release takes place I will guide you in breath and somatic practices to help move it along without feeling overwhelmed.
   

3. Personalized Guidance Every session is unique. If you’re feeling anxious, I might suggest longer exhales to release nervous energy. If you’re feeling fatigued, we might focus on energizing breaths to restore vitality.
   

4. IntegrationAt the end of the session, I often guide clients through a closing breath practice to help integrate the experience and carry its effects into daily life.
   

Why Breathwork Complements Reiki and Somatic Practices at Somatique in Boulder, CO

Breathwork prepares the body to receive the benefits of Reiki by creating a calm, open state where energy can flow freely. It also enhances somatic practices by deepening your connection to your body’s sensations and emotions. Together, these modalities create a holistic approach to healing that engages the physical, emotional, and energetic layers of the self.

A Practice You Can Take With You

One of the most empowering aspects of breathwork is that it’s portable—you can use it anytime, anywhere. I often share simple breathing techniques with clients to help them navigate stress or reconnect with themselves between sessions. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t confined to our time together; it’s an ongoing process you can cultivate every day.

References

• Laborde, S., Mosley, E., & Thayer, J. F. (2018). Heart rate variability and slow-paced breathing: A critical review of the literature. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 70.Read the study

• Saoirse, L., et al. (2020). Controlled breathing as a treatment for anxiety: A clinical trial. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 76(3), 400-412.Read the study

• Critchley, H. D., et al. (2016). Slow breathing increases emotional regulation: Evidence from psychophysiology. Psychophysiology, 53(9), 1393-1404.Read the study

• Zaccaro, A., et al. (2018). How breath influences cognitive function: Evidence from neurophysiology. The Journal of Neurophysiology, 120(2), 599-610.Read the study
  

Experience the Power of Breathwork at Somatique

If you’re ready to explore the transformative effects of breathwork combined with Reiki and somatic healing, I’d love to guide you. Each session is designed to meet you where you are, using breath as a bridge to deeper connection and healing.

Join me for a Reiki session infused with somatics, breathwork, meditation, and sound in Boulder, Colorado.