FAQs - Breath
-
This may be the most important question you can ask. Breathwork is built upon your day-to-day breathing capacity. The better you breathe daily, the better you will experience breathwork. That is why I am adamant about improving breathing capacity and respiratory/body assessment.
-
Breathwork involves various breathing techniques to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It focuses on conscious manipulation of breathing patterns to promote relaxation, reduce stress, boost creativity & focus, and enhance overall health & performance. It is one of the few things that help people of all sorts, from children to elite athletes, from office workers to dancers.
-
During breathwork, controlled breathing changes the body’s oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, influencing the nervous system. This can have a range of effects. The most common are tingly sensations and lightheadedness.
-
Breathwork is safe. However, it’s essential to practice under the guidance of a trained professional, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.
-
Breathwork can offer various benefits, such as stress reduction, improved mental clarity, increased emotional resilience, better sleep quality, enhanced focus & creativity, improved cardiovascular ability, more strength, and heightened self-awareness.
-
People with medical conditions should consult healthcare professionals before starting breathwork. Some techniques may only suit some, and personalized guidance is essential.
-
Personalized breathwork sessions typically involve tailored techniques and guidance. I address individual needs and goals in a focused environment. Together, we find out what works best for you. I have limited spaces available, so I can give my undivided attention.
-
The nerves are great. They are your body's way of preparing for the activity ahead. Even though they can feel unbearable (I have been there), it is in those moments that we grow as a person.
-
Consider your goals and preferences. Research different techniques and, if possible, try introductory sessions to find what resonates best with you. Consulting a professional can also help you select the most suitable method. And know that this too might change, and that is completely fine.
-
No need to worry. I am just one e-mail away. Please send your question to sanjay@thatbreathingguy.com.
FAQs - Cold
-
Ice baths are safe when done correctly and for suitable durations. However, individuals with certain health conditions, such as heart problems or hypertension, should consult a healthcare professional before attempting them.
-
It depends on the severity of your issues. As a guideline, you can take a cold shower if you feel like you’re about to become sick. But if you are already ill, maybe only expose your hands to the cold, for example. Or you could make it less cold.
-
The best form changes based on individual preferences and goals. Options include cold showers, ice baths, outdoor exposure, or specific activities like cold-water swimming or cryotherapy. Choose what suits your comfort level or challenges you and your health.
-
Practice controlled and steady breathing when exposed to cold. Deep, slow, rhythmic breaths can help regulate body temperature and manage stress response. Never do cyclical hyperventilating breathwork in or near water, such as the Wim Hof Method.
-
Cold exposure might help improve circulation and condition your body to adapt to colder temperatures. Your body is an adaptation machine. Slow and controlled cold exposure might save you some gloves!
-
Start gradually by exposing yourself to mild colds, like taking a shorter cold shower or spending brief periods outdoors in cooler temperatures. Gradual exposure can help you deal with your fear.
-
The time varies based on tolerance levels and the form of exposure. Start with shorter periods (e.g., a few minutes in a cold shower). The most important thing to consider is why you are in the cold; what is your goal? And remember, safety first.
-
Frequency depends on individual capacity and goals. Begin with occasional exposures and gradually increase frequency as your body adjusts. Listen to your body and avoid overexposure that might cause adverse effects.
-
A myriad of things! To conserve heat, your blood vessels tighten, reducing blood flow to your skin and extremities. This keeps more blood in your core to protect vital organs.
Your muscles might start to shiver, generating heat.
Your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. These help increase your heart rate and blood pressure, giving you a burst of energy and warmth.
Your brown fat, a type of fat that generates heat, becomes more active. This helps warm your body without shivering.
Cold exposure can boost your immune system by increasing certain white blood cells' number and activity, helping fight off infections.
Your mind finds a calm place in the midst of the stress of the cold. -
No need to worry. I am just one e-mail away. Please send your question to sanjay@thatbreathingguycom.