Funktional breathwork is a therapeutic breathing practice that is intended to help with emotional healing and personal growth. It’s said to produce an altered state of consciousness. The process involves breathing at a fast rate for minutes to hours. This changes the balance between carbon dioxide and oxygen in the body. You are guided through the exercise by someone who is trained in this emotional release modality.
Music is an essential part of the technique and is incorporated into the session. After a session, you’ll be asked to creatively express your experience, usually by drawing a mandala or journaling. You’ll also be encouraged to discuss your experience. Your reflection will not be interpreted. Instead, you may be asked to elaborate upon certain aspects.
The goal of this technique is to help you make improvements to your psychological and spiritual development. Funktional breathing may also bring about physical benefits. The entire process is meant to activate your natural capacity for healing.
What is it used for?
Funktional breathing is said to facilitate mental, spiritual, and physical healing benefits. It’s thought to have the potential to bring about improved self-awareness and a more positive outlook on life. You can use it to support your development in a variety of ways.
It’s thought that the practice allows you to move beyond your body and ego to get in touch with your true self and spirit. It allows you to better connect with others and the natural world. Funktional breathing may be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- depression
- stress
- addiction
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- migraine headaches
- chronic pain
- avoidance behaviors
- asthma
- premenstrual tension
Some people have used the technique to get rid of negative thoughts, including the fear of death. They’ve also used it to help manage trauma. The practice helps some people to find new purpose and direction in their lives.
How do you do Funktional Breathing?
It’s recommended that you do funktional breathing under the guidance of a trained facilitator. The experience has the potential to be intense and emotional. The facilitators are there to assist you with anything that should arise.
Sessions are available as group session, workshop, or retreats. Individual sessions are also available. Read more about Breathwork here