Emotional Regulation Through Breathwork

Pranayama is a Sanskrit word that means ‘tuning the life force energy’. It refers to breathing techniques, used in yoga, to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Changing the way that we breathe has a direct impact on our emotional state as breathing is closely connected to the autonomic nervous system, which regulates many physiological processes in the body, including the stress response.

Different breathing techniques activate different parts of the nervous system. For example, slow, deep breathing, like diaphragmatic breathing, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. The heart rate slows down, blood pressure drops, and breathing becomes slower and deeper, reducing stress and anxiety, leading to feelings of calm and ease. And alternate nostril breathing, another yogic breath, has been shown to increase alpha brainwave activity, which is associated with relaxation and improved mood.

On the other hand, breath of fire (a breath that involves rapid, rhythmic breathing through the nose) has a stimulating effect on the nervous system, increasing alertness, energy, and focus, as well as improving the body's ability to respond to stress and cope with anxiety. It, also, cleanses the system, reduces tension and allows for deeper relaxation post practice. (To learn this breathing practice, check out our blog post ‘Breath to Energise’.)

By paying attention to the breath and allowing it to slow down, we become more fully present, in this moment, enhancing our awareness. This gives us the opportunity to observe our thoughts and feelings without judgement, allowing that energy to move through, instead of us getting caught up in it. It, also, allows us to respond instead of reacting when challenging situations arise.

And if you really pay attention, you will notice that each emotion has a different breathing pattern. Changing our breathing is a powerful tool for regulating our emotions. To shift any emotional state, we can work with the breath.

Wondering how breathwork can benefit your emotional state? Read on:

Reduced Stress

Breathwork reduces the levels of stress hormones in the body, such as cortisol, and increases the production of feel-good hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can alleviate anxiety and depression.

Increased Self-Awareness

Breathwork allows us to show up fully in the present moment, to become more aware, to really see what is going on inside of us, and awareness is the first step in changing anything.

Emotional Release

Physical and emotional tension can get stored in the body as we move through space and time. Breathwork helps to release this tension, allowing our energy to flow more freely, creating much more ease in body and mind.

Emotional Stability

A regular breathwork practice helps to balance emotions, reducing mood swings and increasing feelings of calm and inner ease.

Improved Mood

When our energy is flowing more freely, we feel better in body and mind and it’s much easier for us to access the higher energetic states of joy, peace and love on a regular basis.

Increased Relaxation

Breathwork promotes relaxation and improves quality of sleep, which helps to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.

Pranayama can have a significant impact on our emotional state as it helps to balance the flow of energy in the body, releasing any stuck energy and calming the mind. By changing the way we breathe, we can experience greater focus, clarity and peace of mind.

There are many different breathing techniques and approaches to explore, depending on individual needs and preferences. To get started, check out our Pranayama Lab on Sattva Connect. Your Support to an Awakened Life!