Trauma-Informed Breathwork
Breathwork the intentional practice of bringing awareness to the breath, and in some techniques, gently modulating it to support physiological balance, vitality and nervous system regulation.
Different breath practices can influence multiple aspects of our physiology including: heart rate, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, autonomic nervous system, and mind states. Breathwork is a powerful tool for wellbeing and healing, when approached safely and mindfully.
My Approach to Breathwork
All breathwork I offer is delivered through a trauma-informed compassionate lens. For some, particularly those with a history of trauma, the breath may initially feel unsafe or difficult to focus on. I work collaboratively with you, tailoring practices to meet your needs and supporting choice and agency.
I focus on functional breathwork, grounded in normal respiratory physiology and integrated with nervous system regulation principles, somatic awareness, and trauma-informed embodied practices. One of the approaches to breathwork I draw on is Buteyko.
What Is The Buetyko Method?
The Buteyko Method, developed by Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, is a structured approach to breathwork to optimise breathing efficiency. I trained with Patrick McKeown (Oxygen Advantage) and integrate Buteyko principles with my somatic and trauma-informed expertise.
There are 4 main principles: nasal breathing, light breathing, slow breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing. Core aims include:
- Promoting nasal breathing throughout the day and night
- Optimising breathing efficiency – supporting slow, light, diaphragmatic breathing
- Reducing sensitivity to carbon dioxide
- Improving oxygen delivery
- Addressing dysfunctional breathing patterns
- Supporting autonomic nervous system balance
All practices are taught with attention to nasal breathing, gentle pacing, and correct tongue posture (resting on the roof of the mouth just behind the top front teeth), lips together, and jaw relaxed. The practices are always adapted to individual readiness, tolerance and comfort.
How Is Breathwork Offered?
Breathwork is integrated into
- 1:1 Integrative Somatic Therapy sessions
- Specialist Physiotherapy sessions
- Group Embodied Wellbeing Workshops.
All practices are adapted to support your safety, comfort, and goals. You can learn more about these offerings here:
Benefits of Breathwork
While breathwork is not one-size-fits all and individual considerations are important, both research and clinical experience suggest it may be supportive in a number of ways including:
- Enhanced nervous system regulation
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased exercise tolerance
- Improved cognitive function
- Increased energy
- Greater emotional resilience
- Managing chronic health conditions
Who Is This For?
Trauma-informed breathwork may support people who:
- Want to deepen nervous system awareness and regulation
- Experience chronic stress, anxiety, or trauma
- Live with chronic health conditions, such as persistent pain, ME/CFS, Long Covid, Fibromyalgia or FND
- Seek to develop resilience, vitality, and embodied wellbeing
- Are exploring self-compassion, personal growth, or healing
Next Steps
If you’re curious about how trauma-informed breathwork could support your wellbeing, you’re invited to explore more of my work that breathwork is part of here:
You’re also welcome to book a free 15-minute discovery call to explore whether this work is right for you—there’s no obligation to continue. Contact Ann:
- Email info@unityphysio.co.uk
- Call 07871240188
- Click the Book Now button
Location
You can arrange a virtual appointment for anywhere in the UK or an in person appointment in North Hykeham, Lincoln.
Get in touch
If you would like to find out how Ann can help manage and change fatigue, do what you love, live well and thrive again get in touch to book your appointment, or a free 15 minute call to help you decide if working with Ann is right for you.