Breath is the bridge between the nervous system and emotions. And thus, it’s a powerful tool for transformation. While many forms of breathwork exist, Somatic Breathwork is unique because it directly addresses stored tension, trauma, and emotional blockages in the body.
Because the fastest way to change your behavior is through your physiology, many times when people cognitively work through a problem, their body still holds the memory. This is because its our bodies that experience the world. Events are imprinted into us when we are in a state of intense emotion. Often to truly move through a past experience that is holding us back, a physical form of therapy is what we need.
What is Somatic Breathwork?
Somatic Breathwork is a body-centered approach to breathwork that focuses on using breath to release stored emotions, rewire the nervous system, and restore a sense of balance. The word “somatic” comes from the Greek word soma, meaning “the living body,” emphasizing that this practice is deeply rooted in bodily sensations, rather than purely mental or spiritual experiences.
Emotions and traumas are stored in the body, often in the form of muscular tension, shallow breathing patterns, and nervous system dysregulation. Through intentional, rhythmic breathing, it helps access these stored energies and release them. Participants experience profound healing and personal breakthroughs.
Somatic Breathwork is a form of therapy that allows a person to work through events and experiences without having to talk it through. When a release is experienced by the body there is often also a mental processing where emotions can be released when they need to be.
How Does Somatic Breathwork Work?
Somatic Breathwork typically involves a structured breathing pattern, such as:
- Deep, connected breathing: Continuous, circular breathing without pauses between the inhale and exhale.
- Exaggerated exhales: Letting go of tension with sound or vocalization.
- Active body movements: Encouraging spontaneous movements, shaking, or stretching to facilitate emotional release.
- Guided emotional processing: Sessions often include coaching or cues to help individuals explore emotions that surface.
Unlike some meditative breathwork practices that focus on relaxation, this form encourages full-body engagement. The goal is not just to calm the mind but to tap into deep-seated emotions and physical sensations that may be holding a person back.
How is Somatic Breathwork Different from Other Types of Breathwork?
Most people are familiar with breathwork techniques like Pranayama, Holotropic Breathwork, and Wim Hof Method. Somatic Breathwork has distinct characteristics that set it apart:
1. Emotional Release vs. Energy Cultivation
- Pranayama (Yoga Breathwork): Aims to balance and regulate energy (prana) in the body through structured breathing patterns.
- Wim Hof Method: Uses controlled hyperventilation and cold exposure to increase oxygen levels, boost endurance, and enhance resilience.
- Holotropic Breathwork: Involves rapid, deep breathing to enter altered states of consciousness, often for spiritual insight.
- Somatic Breathwork: Primarily targets emotional release and trauma healing, rather than energy cultivation or spiritual exploration.
2. Body-Centered vs. Mind-Centered Approach
- Some breathwork techniques focus primarily on breath control and mental focus (e.g., Pranayama, box breathing).
- Somatic Breathwork encourages movement, sound, and physical expression, allowing emotions to move through the body naturally.
3. Engages the Nervous System for Deep Healing
- Numerous breathwork styles focus on relaxing the nervous system, such as diaphragmatic breathing for stress relief.
- Somatic Breathwork actively engages the nervous system, helping people release stored trauma and reset their stress response.
4. Accessible and Intuitive vs. Structured Techniques
- Many breathwork techniques require precise control (e.g., alternate nostril breathing, box breathing).
- Somatic Breathwork is more instinctive and adaptive, making it accessible to those who struggle with structured breathwork practices.
Benefits of This Form of Breathwork
People who practice Somatic Breathwork often experience:
Emotional breakthroughs and release of stored trauma
A greater sense of embodiment and connection to their feelings
Reduced anxiety and nervous system regulation
Increased clarity and personal insight
Physical relaxation and relief from chronic tension
Who is Somatic Breathwork For?
It is especially beneficial for:
- Those experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional suppression
- Individuals recovering from trauma or PTSD
- People feeling stuck or disconnected from their bodies
- Anyone wanting a deeper connection to their emotions and intuition
Somatic Breathwork is a powerful tool for releasing stored emotions, rewiring the nervous system, and fostering deep personal healing. Unlike other breathwork techniques that focus on energy regulation or spiritual awakening, this practice is deeply rooted in physical sensations and emotional processing.
