breathwork FAQ
What should I wear to MY breathwork session?
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes that allow unrestricted breathing and movement. During the breathwork session it’s common to experience temperature fluctuations. Dressing in layers and having a blanket on hand is a good idea in case you get unexpectedly cold or hot during the session. And don’t forget to bring warm socks! Keeping your extremities warm can enhance your overall comfort and relaxation throughout the session. These little comforts can keep you feeling relaxed and ready for the ride.
Should I eat before my breathwork session?
Yes, we suggest you have a light meal or snack an hour before your breathwork session. Eating something light, like a piece of fruit, yogurt, or a protein bar, can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and provide you with a comfortable amount of energy during your session. Always avoid heavy meals and rich foods before your breathwork session. Hydration is also essential before your session. Drink enough water before the session to stay well-hydrated without feeling overly full. Ultimately, the goal is to find a balance that works best for your body and helps you have a positive breathwork experience.
Is it okay to have caffeine or alcohol before a breathwork session?
For the best experience, avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after a breathwork session.
What should I bring to a breathwork session?
You may have noticed that seasoned breathworkers often look like they are headed to a slumber party when they arrive with their fuzzy socks, blankets and eye masks. They’ve learned that these comforts allow their body to feel relaxed so they can go deeper into their breathwork experience. We recommend you bring a journal and pen. When emerging from breathwork, you will want to capture all of the experiences and insights you had on your journey.
Here's a list of items to consider bringing:
yoga mat
blanket
water bottle
eye mask
journal and pen
Can I participate if I have a medical condition or injury?
If you have concerns, always check with your doctor first. Breathwork is safe for most people to practice. However, participating in a breathwork session with a medical condition or injury depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the condition or injury. If you have specific health concerns, if you have pre-existing medical conditions, have had a recent surgery, are pregnant, have high blood pressure, eye issues, seizures, a personal or family history of aneurysms, cardiovascular conditions or have severe mental health challenges, please consult with your healthcare provider beforehand. Feel free to contact us with any questions about accommodations or adjustments.
What if I'm feeling anxious or uncomfortable before my breathwork session?
It’s perfectly normal to be nervous. You’ve never had this experience before. Feeling anxious or uncomfortable before a breathwork session is common, especially if it's your first time. To manage this anxiety, first, acknowledge your feelings without judgment. Remember that it's natural to have apprehensions about the unknown. Feel free to reach out to Kristin to talk through any concerns and ask more questions about the sessions. She’s here to provide guidance, reassurance, and support.
Kristin begins all sessions with new participants with full instructions. If your breathwork session is in person, arriving a little early to the session can help you become more familiar with the environment and settle in. If you have a group Zoom breathwork session, make sure you are in a quiet, private space and settle in a few minutes before the session with all of your comfortable pillows and blankets. You’ll have a few minutes at the beginning of the call to ask questions. If you’re signed-up for a private breathwork session, you’ll have time at the beginning of the call to talk through any concerns you have.
How long is a typical breathwork session?
Kristin’s private breathwork sessions and group breathwork events typically last 90 minutes, with a structured format that includes 25-30 minutes for intake and preparation, followed by 50 minutes of active breathing, and concluding with 10-15 minutes dedicated to integration and reflection.
Our on-line group breathwork classes last for 60 minutes. The on-line group breathwork session structure includes 10 minutes of breathwork instruction, 40 minutes of breathing, and 10 minutes of reflection, sharing and integration.
What can I expect in terms of physical sensations or emotions during the session?
You can expect a range of physical sensations and emotions during a breathwork session. Common physical sensations include tingling, cold, warmth, or muscle tension, especially during the active breathing phase.
Emotionally, you may experience a broad spectrum of feelings, from deep relaxation and bliss to temporary discomfort or emotional release. It's important to remember that everyone's experience is unique, and the session's guided process aims to help you navigate and integrate these sensations and emotions effectively.
Is there anything I should do to prepare mentally or emotionally for the session?
To prepare mentally and emotionally for a breathwork session, take a moment to set a clear intention for the session, outlining what you hope to achieve or experience.
Paradoxically, while setting an intention is a gentle way to guide an outcome, your session may have something far more aligned in store for you. Once you set your intention, release it. It’s important that you open yourself up to what the experience has to offer you by letting go of expectations and embracing an open, receptive mindset. You will be in a safe space to experience exactly as it is meant to unfold. Allow what is to come to surprise and delight you. This mental and emotional preparation can enhance your overall experience and readiness for the breathwork journey.
Can I bring a friend or family member with me to the breathwork session?
You can bring a friend or family member to our group sessions where participation is open to multiple individuals. Each attendee should register individually. In private one-on-one sessions, it is typically not recommended that you bring someone along because these sessions are tailored specifically to your individual needs and focused on where you are in your private journey. There is great power and alignment in breathing together with someone to deepen a relationship. If the person you bring along is part of the intention of the session, like a romantic or business partner, please let your facilitator know when you schedule the session.
Is there a specific breathing technique we'll be using during the session?
It’s referred to as a “conscious, connected, circular breath.” Physically it feels like a deep sigh. One sigh rolls into the next and forms a rhythm that carries you through the session. Kristin will be guiding you through the entire session, helping you to effortlessly keep this circular breathing rhythm to release emotional blockages, alleviate stress, enhance mental clarity, and promote overall well-being.
What happens after MY breathwork session?
When you emerge from your session it may feel like you just got off an exciting roller coaster or woke up from a beautiful, otherworldly dream. Allowing yourself time for integration and reflection is essential. You may find it helpful to journal your experiences, engage in gentle movement or stretching, take a bath and practice self-care to fully absorb the insights and emotions that may have arisen during the session.