For most people, breathwork is safe, especially when it’s guided by someone trained who works in a safe, trauma-informed way. But it isn’t right for everyone.
What’s happening in your body
The style I use, conscious connected breathing, changes your physiology. Deeper, connected breaths shift the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your body, which is why you can feel things so quickly. Which is why it deserves respect, its a powerful process.
What you might feel
Sensations arising is completely normal, people can feel:
Tingling or buzzing, often in the hands, feet or face
Tightness in the hands or jaw
Warmth, coolness, heaviness or lightness
Lightheadedness
Strong emotions, tears or laughter that seem to come from nowhere
None of this means something is going wrong. It’s your body moving through what it’s been holding. If anything ever feels like too much, we slow down, or change the breath. One of the things I love about breathwork is that you are always in control.
Who should be cautious
Some conditions mean this style of breathwork may not be appropriate, or needs to be adapted or cleared with your doctor first. The ones most commonly flagged include:
Pregnancy
Heart conditions or high blood pressure
Epilepsy or a history of seizures
Glaucoma or a detached retina
Aneurysm
Osteoporosis
Significant respiratory conditions
Recent surgery or injury
Severe mental health conditions such as psychosis or bipolar disorder
Certain medications
This isn’t a complete list, which is why I ask about your health before we begin. If something applies to you, it doesn’t always mean a no. Sometimes it means a gentler approach, and sometimes it means checking with your doctor first. Either way, I’d rather have that conversation early.
Trauma and emotional safety
Physical safety is only half of it. Breathwork can bring up old emotions, and doing that without support isn’t always helpful.
That’s why I work in a trauma-informed way. We only go as deep as your system is ready for, and we always take time to come back and integrate afterwards. Going slowly doesn't mean a lack of progress, this is how your body learns its safe to let go.
What breathwork isn’t
Breathwork isn’t a replacement for medical care or mental health treatment. I’ve seen it change lives, including my own, but it works best alongside good support, not instead of it. Please don’t change or stop any medication without speaking to your doctor.
A few simple guidelines
Tell me about any health conditions or medications beforehand
Avoid alcohol or recreational substances before and after a session
Never practise deep breathwork while driving or in water
Give yourself time afterwards to relax, not jump back into life
Still unsure?
That’s okay. Ask me. I’d always rather answer your questions before a session than after.
If you’re curious, reach out. I’d love to chat.
John
