Trauma-Informed Breathwork
Breathwork refers to the intentional practice of bringing awareness to the breath, and with some practices gently modulating it to support physiological balance and nervous system regulation. Different techniques may influence heart rate, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, the autonomic nervous system, and mind states, making breathwork a potentially valuable tool for wellbeing and supporting healing, when approached safely and mindfully.
Ann’s Approach
Like all of Ann’s work, breathwork is offered through a trauma-informed compassionate lens. This approach recognises that for some individuals – especially those with a history of trauma – the breath may not initially feel like a safe or accessible place to focus attention. Ann works collaboratively with each person, tailoring practices to meet you where you are and supporting a sense of agency and choice in your experience.
Drawing from a range of evidence-informed approaches, Ann integrates breath awareness practices, selected pranayama (yogic breath techniques), and tools from the Buteyko Method. These are woven together with her clinical experience and training in nervous system regulation, somatic and embodied practices, to gently support regulation and capacity building over time.
What Is The Buetyko Method?
The Buteyko Method, originally developed by Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, is a structured approach to breathwork based on the principles of respiratory physiology and optimising breathing efficiency. Ann received her training from Patrick McKeown (from Oxygen Advantage) and integrates the method’s core principles with her somatic and trauma-informed expertise.
This method focuses on reducing over breathing and optimising breathing efficiency using optimal functional breathing patterns. There are 4 main principles: nasal breathing, light breathing, slow breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing. Core aims include:
- Promoting nasal breathing throughout the day and during sleep
- Optimising breathing efficiency
- Reducing sensitivity to carbon dioxide
- Supporting balanced oxygen delivery and improved cellular oxygenation
- Addressing dysfunctional breathing patterns
- Supporting autonomic nervous system balance
All practices are taught with attention to nasal breathing, gentle pacing, and correct tongue posture (with the tongue 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 Ann’s 1:1 Integrative Somatic Therapy sessions and group somatic wellbeing offerings. All practices are adapted to support safety, comfort, and individual goals. You can learn more about these offerings via the link below.
What Are the Benefits?
Breathwork, like many wellbeing practices, is not a one size fits all solution, and precautions and contraindications with each practice need consideration. A number of factors influence how it’s experienced and what the outcomes are. However both research and clinical experience suggest that regular trauma-sensitive breathwork practice may offer a number of benefits, including:
- Enhanced nervous system regulation
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved sleep quality
- Improved exercise tolerance
- Increased emotional resilience
- Supports the management of chronic conditions
Would You Like to Explore more?
If you’re curious about how trauma-informed breathwork could support your wellbeing, you’re invited to explore more on the Integrative Somatic Wellbeing page, linked below. There you can learn more about how Ann weaves breathwork into her broader therapeutic work in a way that is grounded, evidence-informed, trauma-informed and deeply compassionate.
You’re also welcome to get in touch to book a free 15 minute discovery call – a space to explore whether this work feels like the right fit for you, there is no obligation to book an appointment after this call – email Ann info@unityphysio.co.uk, or call 07871240188, or send a contact for by clicking book now in the blue box below.
More information about appointments is available via the link below:
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.