All you need to know before starting your practice
How Safe is Breathwork?
Breathwork is fast becoming widely practiced due to it’s possible profound positive effects on mental and physical health, with benefits being felt almost instantly after practice. However, as with any practice, there are various things to consider before beginning your breathwork journey. Thus, the following information serves to help you make an informed decision about whether or not breathwork is for you.
Everyone's health and medical history are unique, and certain individuals may have contraindications or precautions when it comes to breathwork. While breathwork can offer numerous benefits, it's essential to be mindful of any potential risks or limitations.
Please remember, it is important to us that you feel safe and can get the maximum benefit from your breathwork practices. Therefore we always recommend consulting a healthcare professional before engaging in any breathwork practices, especially if you have any specific health conditions or concerns.
1. Can I practice while pregnant?
Whilst many women report practicing breathwork during pregnancy, especially techniques designed for stress reduction and relaxation, it’s essential to consider the potential effects of breathwork on your pregnancy. Breathwork practices involving intense breathing or breath retention may not be advisable during pregnancy. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider or a prenatal specialist to ensure the safety and suitability of breathwork practices for your specific pregnancy circumstances.
2. What if I have a respiratory condition?
Although there is increasing evidence that breathwork can in fact increase ones breathing capacity and improve lung strength, anyone with respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, or other chronic lung conditions, must exercise caution when practicing breathwork. Techniques involving forceful or rapid breathing may not be suitable for you and could potentially trigger breathing difficulties or exacerbate symptoms. Therefore not all breathing techniques may be suitable for you. Please consult your healthcare provider or a respiratory specialist to determine which breathwork practices are safe and appropriate for your condition.
3. What if I have cardiovascular issues?
While breathwork has the potential to improve cardiovascular function individuals with cardiovascular issues, such as hypertension or hypotension, history of chest pain, any heart disease, recent heart attack, or other cardiovascular conditions, should approach breathwork with caution. Techniques involving prolonged breath retention or forceful or rapid breathing can temporarily increase blood pressure and heart rate, potentially posing risks for those with cardiovascular concerns and conditions. Please consult your healthcare provider regarding which which breathwork techniques are suitable for your condition.
4.Can I practice after recent surgery?
If you have recently undergone surgery or have any acute injuries, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in breathwork. Certain techniques involving vigorous movements or forceful breathing may interfere with the healing process or exacerbate pain and discomfort. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on when it's appropriate to incorporate breathwork into your recovery plan.
5. Could my mental health condition be negatively affected?
For individuals with mental health conditions breathwork can be a valuable tool, particularly for conditions such as anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD and depression, but certain techniques may need to be approached with caution. Deep emotional release practices or hyperventilation-like techniques can be intense and may trigger emotional or psychological distress, especially for those with trauma, panic disorders, or other mental health concerns. Therefore it's crucial to consult with a mental health professional or therapist to determine which breathwork approaches are suitable and safe for you.
We also highly recommend speaking to your healthcare professional regarding any psychoactive medication which you may currently be taking.
6. What if I have a seizure disorder?
It is recommended that anyone with a seizure disorder approach breathwork with caution, especially when practicing at home without a professional present. While some deep breathing techniques may help manage ones seizures, others could potentially trigger a seizure. Therefore it is important to consult your healthcare provider before practicing any breathwork techniques.
7. What if I have a history of aneurysms?
While breathwork can offer numerous benefits for overall well-being, individuals with aneurysms must exercise caution and take necessary precautions. Understanding the contraindications associated with breathwork and aneurysms is crucial for ensuring safety and minimizing potential risks. Always consult with healthcare professionals, adhere to personalized advice, and prioritize your well-being when considering breathwork practices.
Ultimately, we always recommend listening to your body and respecting your own limitations during breathwork. Each person's health and circumstances are unique, and what works for one individual may not be suitable for another. Consulting with healthcare professionals who understand your specific medical history is the best way to ensure that breathwork practices align with your needs and promote your overall well-being.
