Vanessa Bokanowski – Psychologist In Brussels

Therapeutic Breathwork

Therapeutic breathwork is a holistic practice that involves conscious, intentional, and deep breathing techniques. Its aim is to support individuals in accessing and exploring their inner experiences, releasing emotional blockages, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation.

It is considered a powerful tool for self-discovery, releasing emotional blockages, overcoming anxiety and depression, healing trauma, accessing creativity, and fostering personal growth.

Why is breathwork so powerful?

During a breathwork session, a person lies down and engages in a specific breathing pattern that encourages a deepened state of awareness. This intensified breathing, accompanied by music and bodywork, helps individuals access non-ordinary states of consciousness. These states can be characterized by vivid imagery, emotional release, physical sensations, and, for some, spiritual experiences.

Traumas can be formed through a variety of experiences but are typically characterized by overwhelming or distressing events that exceed an individual’s ability to cope effectively.

When a person experiences trauma, their nervous system can become overwhelmed, leading to physiological, psychological, and emotional responses. Memories and emotions associated with the traumatic event can become stored in the brain and body, often resulting in symptoms. 

Therapeutic breathwork sessions allow individuals to activate their nervous system in a safe and controlled manner, unblocking difficult events or emotions that have been stored within. This process is usually followed by a deep state of relaxation and well-being.

All of my therapeutic breathwork sessions include preparatory therapeutic work to prepare the mind and body for the experience. Integration sessions are also provided afterward to process everything that has emerged and help individuals make sense of the entire experience.

Therapeutic breathwork is a very powerful way to access the unconscious and facilitate rapid, profound, and sustained transformation.

“Self-regulation depends on having a friendly relationship with your body. Without it you have to rely on external regulations-from medication. Drugs like alcohol, constant reassurance or compulsive compliance with the wishes of others”.  
Bessel Van Der Kolk