FAQ- Somatic Breathwork

Important: While I am a Certified SomatIQ™ Breathwork Practitioner it is important to note that I am not a medical professional or licensed mental health professional. These questions and answers are for informational and educational purposes only. This information should not be taken as medical advice or used as a substitute for such. You should always speak to your own physician or mental health support team before implementing this information on your own. Thank you!

 

What is a SomatIQ Breathwork™ Journey?

A Somatic Breathwork Journey is a guided experience using intentional breathing techniques to release stored tension, emotions, and stress from the body. It helps regulate the nervous system, promote clarity, and support overall well-being.

How does SomatIQ Breathwork™ work?

Somatic Breathwork uses conscious, rhythmic breathing patterns to activate the body’s natural ability to release emotional and physical blockages. By shifting your breath, you influence your nervous system, allowing stored energy and suppressed emotions to surface and process.

What are some of the benefis of Somatic Release Breathwork?

• Releases stored stress, trauma, and tension

• Enhances emotional regulation and resilience

• Increases clarity, creativity, and self-awareness

• Supports nervous system balance and deep relaxation

• Boosts energy and overall well-being

What are the benefits of a regulated nervous system?

• Emotional Balance – Less anxiety, mood swings, and emotional reactivity

• Improved Stress Resilience – Ability to handle challenges without feeling overwhelmed

• Better Sleep – Deeper, more restorative sleep cycles • Enhanced Focus & Clarity – Improved cognitive function and decision-making

• Stronger Immune System – Reduced inflammation and better overall health

• Healthy Digestion – Improved gut function and reduced digestive issues

• Increased Energy & Vitality – Less fatigue and more sustained energy

• Improved Relationships – Greater capacity for connection and communication

• Reduced Physical Tension – Less chronic pain, headaches, and muscle tightness

• A well-regulated nervous system allows you to move through life with more ease, adaptability, and presence.

How often can you do Somatic Breathwork?

The frequency depends on your personal goals. Some people practice weekly for deep transformation, while others do it biweekly or monthly for ongoing support. Listening to your body and integrating the experience is key. If you are new to breathwork I would start out with monthly sessions and slowly work up your frequency.

Is SomatIQ Breathwork™ safe for everyone?

This form of Breathwork is generally safe, but individuals with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before starting.

Contraindications:

•pregnancy

•cardiovascular problems including angina or heart attack

•high blood pressure

•glaucoma

•retinal detachment

•osteoporosis

•history of seizures

•stroke

•major psychiatric conditions including schizophrenia or other severe psychiatric condition

•recent surgery

•acute infectious illness

•epilepsy

Some of these conditions may be okay with certain exceptions:

•High Blood Pressure (must be controlled with medication)

•Thyroid problems (must be controlled with medication)

•Diabetes (must be controlled with medication)

•Asthma (consult your physician and bring your inhaler if approved)

If you have any doubt about whether you should participate, please consult with your primary care physician. SomatIQ Breathwork™ is intended as a personal growth experience and should not be looked upon as a substitute for psychotherapy.

What to expect after somatic breathwork?

You may feel deeply relaxed, emotionally lighter, or energized. Some people experience clarity, emotional release, or physical sensations. Integration is important—hydrate, rest, and allow time for reflection.

What is the science of somatic breathwork?

Somatic Breathwork influences the autonomic nervous system, shifting from a stress response (sympathetic) to a relaxed state (parasympathetic). It increases oxygen flow, activates the vagus nerve, and releases stored tension in the body, supporting emotional and physiological healing.

What happens in a Somatic Breathwork session?

A session includes guided breathwork, music, and sometimes light movement. You’ll be coached through a rhythmic breathing pattern, leading to deep emotional and physical release, followed by integration and reflection.

How long does a SomatIQ Breathwork session last?

A Somatic Breathwork session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. This includes:

• Opening & Intention Setting (10-15 min)

• Active Breathwork (45-60 min)

• Integration & Reflection (10-20 min)

The exact duration may vary depending on whether it’s a private or group session.

What should I wear to a session?

Comfortable clothes that you can move in you will be sitting and laying on blankets on the ground. Bring warm socks!

How should I prepare for a session?

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Avoid heavy meals 1-2 hours before

• Create a quiet, safe space (for virtual sessions)

• Headphones(for virtual sessions)

• Set an intention for your session

• Bring water and Stay hydrated

• wear and bring chapstick

Can Soma+IQ™ Breathwork be used with kids/children?

People ask all the time 'Can we do this with kids?' Kids know how to express naturally.

Kids know that if they don't let it move through them, it will become bottled up. Temper tantrums are often a result of a child letting out that pressure, letting out that expression.

Kids just need a safe space to express. That's it. They need a safe space to let out that expression and a safe parent to co-regulate to.

We believe it's better to work with the parent to create a healthy nervous system for the child to co-regulate to, instead of working with the child directly.