Meditation and Breathwork

Meditation and breathwork

Meditation

Meditation can produce a deep state of relaxation and a tranquil mind. It can improve physical and emotional well-being. Research backs up the many benefits of meditation.

A 2016 study from researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that after 8 weeks of meditation brain scans showed an increase in gray matter in the parts of the brain responsible for learning, memory, and emotional regulation.

In a 2009 study published in the Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 14 participants with social anxiety disorder participated in two months of meditation training and reported decreased anxiety and improved self-esteem after completing the program.A 2019 study showed a reduction in psychological distress among teachers and support staff who participated in a transcendental meditation program.

Another study done in 2020 of more than 6,400 participants across 60 trials found that meditation could reduce pain in those who suffered from post-surgical, acute, or chronic pain. 

With so many different types of meditation and mindfulness exercises to choose from, there is no doubt you will find something that works for you.

Your therapist can walk you through the different meditations, offer guided meditations, and create treatment plans with you to focus on improving your overall well-being.

breathwork

Breathwork is a general term used to describe any type of therapy that utilizes breathing exercises to improve mental, physical, and spiritual health.

There are different types of breathing techniques that can be used in a therapeutic way:

Controlled breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing
Circular breathing 
Holotropic® breathwork
Pranayama breathing

Learning how to sequence breaths can help a variety of ailments like:

  • insomnia
  • traumatic stress (anxiety, depression, panic)
  • triggers
  • anger and boundary work
  • grief
  • constipation
  • headaches
  • fatigue
  • and more…

Different types of meditation –

GUIDED AND UNGUIDED MEDITATIONS

  • Zen meditation
  • Mantra meditation
  • Mindfulness meditation
  • Transcendental meditation
  • Yoga meditation
  • Vipassana meditation
  • Chakra meditation
  • Qigong meditation
  • Sound bath meditation

Calming and insight meditations

Body Scan

Visualization

Loving kindness

Skillful compassion

Resting awareness

Reflection

“Breathwork helps you feel more comfortable with being uncomfortable. It encourages you to let go of being in control and surrendering to the present moment.”