What Is Shamanic Breathwork?

shamanic breathwork

Shamanic Breathwork stands out as a powerful tool for self-discovery and transformation.

It’s not merely a breathing exercise but a profound journey inward, merging rhythmic breathing, evocative music, and focused intention to unlock the depths of the subconscious mind.

By engaging in shamanic breathwork exercises properly, people can connect with their inner selves, traverse deeper levels of consciousness, and liberate emotional blockages that may hinder personal growth.

If you’re interested in shamanic breathwork, then keep reading. This article will explain everything from how the process works and what benefits shamanic breathwork can bring to you (as well as how to execute it properly).

BONUS: Scroll down to the bottom of this article to view a video on exactly how shamanic breathwork is practised.

Overview of shamanic breathwork

Shamanic breathwork is a transformative breathing practice that involves guided circular breathing, breath retention, and toning.

It is often accompanied by rhythmic music, all typically facilitated by a trained guide.

This technique, when executed well, can enhance circulation, boost red blood cell production, detoxify the body, and invigorate a person’s energy levels.

It also supports nervous system regulation, strengthens respiratory function, and provides relief from anxiety and depression.

We’ll explain more about these benefits in detail below.

Benefits of shamanic breathwork

Shamanic breathwork can offer a surprising level of benefits if you execute the techniques properly.

Detoxify and energise your body

Shamanic breathwork facilitates deep oxygenation of the body, aiding in the removal of toxins and revitalising cells.

As you breathe rhythmically, you flood your system with fresh oxygen, promoting detoxification at a cellular level.

This process can leave you feeling rejuvenated, energised and more in tune with your body’s natural rhythms.

One of our students, Wayne, joined our instructor Johannes on an experience in the Snowy Mountains after having taken shamanic breathwork classes with us. He noticed the difference in his breathing virtually straight away.

"There was a shift in the way I breathe, I had more energy and felt great, still do. Since finishing the course I’ve found I wake in the morning with a lot more energy, I’m more alert and I feel more energetic during the day."

Dig up past trauma

One of the remarkable aspects of shamanic breathwork is its capacity to unearth buried emotions and past traumas stored within the subconscious.

Through rhythmic breathwork and immersive music, individuals can access realms of their psyche that may have been long suppressed. By confronting and processing these emotional wounds, healing and transformation become possible.

Our student, Beatriz, undertook a shamanic breathwork class with us – and she couldn’t believe the results.

"The learning, healing, connection, and community they provided went above and beyond anything I can put into words. Keep up the magnificent work that you're doing. You are changing lives and eventually the world."

Gain an understanding of yourself

It’s easy to lose sight of our true selves amidst the noise and distractions of today’s world.

Shamanic breathwork offers a pathway back to self-awareness and inner clarity. It is through exploring the depths of your own consciousness, that you can gain profound insights into their thoughts, feelings, and behavioural patterns.

This heightened self-awareness fosters personal growth, authenticity, and a deeper connection with one’s purpose.
One of our students, Graig, decided to give shamanic breathwork a go. He wasn’t sure what to expect. He enrolled in one of our 4-day classes with Johannes, our instructor. He couldn’t believe what he experienced.

"On every level the experience not just exceeded, but smashed every expectation I had. Johannes and his team fed, watered, nurtured, and brought together 20-plus male strangers and in less than 4 days, worked their magic in ways that had to be experienced to be understood or believed. As an individual, I grew more in every aspect of my life than in my previous 60+ years. And equipped me with simple tools to keep that growth going."

Process your emotions

Emotions are an integral part of the human experience, yet many struggle to effectively process and release them.
Shamanic breathwork provides a safe and supportive space to explore and express emotions fully.
Through the power of breath and sound, individuals can move stagnant energy, release pent-up emotions, and experience profound emotional catharsis.
This process promotes emotional balance, resilience and a greater sense of inner peace.

How to perform shamanic breathwork (in 9 steps)

Breathwork serves as a bridge between the realms of the mind and body, forging a deeper connection that transcends mere physical awareness.

  1. Find a quiet, isolated space where you won’t be disturbed, ensuring your phone is on silent.
  2. Lie down on the floor with no pillows. Make yourself flat. Your spine must be straight.
  3. Close your eyes and settle.
  4. Focus all your attention on your breath, clearing your mind completely.
  5. Breathe in deeply through the nose. You should feel the breath enter the nose, your belly and your chest.
  6. As you reach the end of your inhale, exhale through the mouth as if blowing out a candle.
  7. Immediately return to the inhale as soon as all the breath has left your body.
  8. Remember, this is a circular breathing technique. There isn’t meant to be any pausing.
  9. Repeat this rhythmic breathing pattern, allowing each breath to flow seamlessly into the next. 

Who is shamanic breathwork for?

Shamanic breathwork is really for anyone and everyone on a path of spiritual exploration and self-discovery.

It extends its welcoming embrace to seekers of all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life who yearn to embark on a journey inward.

Whether you’re a seasoned spiritual practitioner or just dipping your toes into consciousness for the very first time, shamanic breathwork really does offer a sacred vessel for exploration and growth.

Regardless of where you find yourself on your spiritual odyssey, shamanic breathwork can stand as your beacon of light, guiding you toward deeper understanding, connection and transformation.

When to avoid practising shamanic breathwork

While spiritual discovery is important, your safety must take priority.

Knowing when to exercise caution in practicing shamanic breathwork is paramount to ensuring your well-being.

While this transformative technique holds profound potential for healing and growth, there are circumstances where it’s prudent to approach with care or avoid altogether:

If you develop chest pain throughout the process

Chest pain during shamanic breathwork may indicate underlying health concerns and should never be ignored.

Discontinue the practice immediately and seek medical attention to ensure your safety.

If you have a chronic respiratory condition

Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), should consult with their healthcare provider before engaging in shamanic breathwork.

The intensity of the practice could exacerbate respiratory symptoms or lead to discomfort.

If you have cardiovascular issues

Those with cardiovascular issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of stroke, should approach shamanic breathwork with caution.

The vigorous nature of the practice may strain the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to adverse effects.

Consulting with a healthcare professional beforehand is advisable to ensure safety.

If you’re outside your “window of tolerance”

Everyone has a unique “window of tolerance,” representing the range of emotional and physiological arousal they can comfortably manage.

Engaging in shamanic breathwork when you’re already in a heightened state of distress or agitation may overwhelm your system.

It’s essential to gauge your emotional and physical state before embarking on the practice and to practice self-awareness throughout.

Learn more about shamanic breathwork from experts

Shamanic breathwork could be fun to do by yourself – but you won’t get the benefits from it if you don’t know how to execute it properly.

Shamanic breathwork is most effective when done in sessions and when led by a trained breathwork professional.

We’ve put together a video explaining what our experts can teach you when it comes to breathwork:

If you’re interested in learning shamanic breathing from the breathwork experts here at Breathless Expeditions, then you’re in the right place.

If you enrol into one of our breathwork classes, we can provide personalised guidance for your body and ongoing support on your path to improved health and spiritual liberation.

If you’re keen to learn more about breathwork training and breathwork workshops near you, click right here or join the free 21-Day Master Your Breath Program with our team at Breathless Expeditions.

Johannes’s inspiring life journey is punctuated by seeking the positives in every situation, a thirst for self-discovery and a love for unconventional experiences.

Despite a challenging childhood, he discovered something unexpected that would alter the direction of his life forever – controlled breathing.

Breathwork immediately resonated with Johannes, and he relentlessly cultivated knowledge on the subject from brilliant minds such as Wim Hof, Laird Hamilton etc and acquired more than ten breathwork certifications.

His holistic wellness brand, Breathless Expeditions, has led the breathwork movement in Australia and inspired thousands of people across the globe since 2018.

With world-renowned clientele such as David Goggins, Ludovico Einaudi, A-League Sports Teams, and some of Australia’s largest companies including PwC’s The Outside event flipping professional development, team building and life reslience experiences on its head, the future is brighter than ever for Johannes and Breathless.

For additional inspiration visit his youtube channel.

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