Breathwork Training: What to Look For
There’s no question that breathing well is a critical component to physical and emotional health. But learning to breathe properly is a process, not an easy one for beginners. Most people have been conditioned to take short, shallow breaths that come from the chest, rather than deeper, more expansive breaths from the diaphragm. That pattern can create tension, irritability, and even physical pain. The goal of breathwork is to address dysfunctional breathing patterns and restore a more natural and efficient breathing process.
During the Breath Masters sessions, clients are encouraged to let go of any limiting beliefs or emotions that hold them back. Whether it’s fear, sadness, or anger, the process of breathing with awareness allows these feelings to emerge in a safe space while also providing them with tools for emotional self-care and spiritual growth.
How to Use Breathwork for Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
According to Cator, beginner breathwork students can expect to experience mild to moderate discomfort, depending on the individual. For instance, she explains that counting the pauses between inhalation and exhalation may feel stressful to some participants while others find it tolerable. In some cases, she says, if someone feels their nervous system is being overwhelmed, they should stop the session.
For those looking to become breathwork instructors, there are numerous options available, many of which offer online classes. But before choosing a program, it’s important to ask yourself what you most want to achieve from becoming certified in breathwork: are you hoping to start offering sessions professionally? If so, consider training programs that are accredited by holistic therapy and breathwork associations.