Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any contraindications to practice somatic breathwork?
Yes — Somatic breathwork is generally safe, but certain conditions require caution. People with heart disease, high blood pressure, history of stroke, epilepsy, recent surgeries, glaucoma, detached retina, or pregnancy should seek medical advice first. Those with severe anxiety, panic disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, PTSD, or unresolved trauma may need professional guidance, as breathwork can trigger strong physical or emotional reactions. Medications affecting breathing, heart rate, or the nervous system also warrant extra care. In all such cases, consult a healthcare provider or qualified facilitator before practicing.
How can breathwork help with emotional trauma or deep healing?
Breathwork supports deep healing by regulating the nervous system, accessing the subconscious, and releasing trauma stored in the body. It can surface buried emotions for processing, shift the body from fight-or-flight to relaxation, and increase emotional awareness. Techniques like Holotropic, Rebirthing, Somatic Breathwork, and calming Pranayama practices help release tension, improve mental clarity, and foster resilience, making breathwork a powerful tool for emotional recovery and self-discovery.
How does breathwork differ from meditation?
Breathwork and meditation both support clarity, healing, and stress relief, but differ in approach. Breathwork is active, using controlled breathing to influence the nervous system, release emotions, and access altered states. Meditation is typically passive, focusing on mindfulness and mental and physical stillness. Breathwork tends to activate and release, while meditation cultivates awareness and presence; combining them can deepen overall well-being.
Does breathwork help with physical health conditions?
Yes. Breathwork supports physical health by improving oxygen flow, reducing stress, and regulating the nervous system, which can benefit high blood pressure, chronic pain, digestive issues, and respiratory conditions. It strengthens lung function, boosts immune response, reduces inflammation, and may improve sleep, energy, and heart rate variability, supporting overall well-being.
What does a typical breathwork session look like?
At Inspire Breathwork, sessions begin with a 5–15 minute conversation to explore your needs, goals, and introduce the breathing techniques. A short grounding meditation follows to prepare for active breathwork, which can last 6 minutes to an hour. The session ends with 5–15 minutes for reflection, discussion, and integration guidance, such as journaling.
What are the physical, mental, and/or emotional side effects experienced during breathwork?
Breathwork experiences vary greatly—some feel mild sensations, others more intense responses. Possible effects include emotional release (crying, laughing, screaming), altered states, dizziness, tingling, muscle cramping, shaking, temperature changes, dry mouth, or localized aches. These are normal, temporary, and most common in longer sessions, often easing as the body shifts into relaxation. Many people simply experience calm, clarity, or gentle release, and guidance is provided to ensure comfort throughout.
How often should I practice breathwork?
The ideal breathwork frequency depends on your goals, experience, and technique. Gentle daily practices of 5–10 minutes work well for general well-being, while deeper somatic sessions are often best once a week to allow recovery. Beginners may start with a few short sessions per month, and those processing trauma may benefit from weekly or biweekly guided sessions. Advanced practitioners may use gentler techniques multiple times a day. Always listen to your body and adjust frequency if you feel dizzy, emotionally overwhelmed, or fatigued.
What are the current service areas for in-person sessions?
Our base rates for in-person sessions currently include the Five Cities and some surrounding areas. Base rates cover Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Oceano, Pismo Beach, Shell Beach, Avila Beach, and Nipomo. Anything outside of these areas will be subject to an additional travel fee.
Need more info?
We are happy to answer any further questions you may have!
