FAQ
BREATHWORK
What is breathwork?
Breathwork is the practice of using intentional breathing techniques to influence your mental, emotional, and physical state. It can help reduce stress, enhance focus, boost energy, and improve overall well-being.
How does breathwork work?
Breathwork works by regulating your nervous system through the breath. It activates different parts of your autonomic nervous system, helping to calm or energize you. It also helps release stored tension and emotions by increasing oxygen flow and improving circulation.
What are the benefits of breathwork?
Breathwork can:​
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Reduce stress and anxiety.
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Improve focus and mental clarity.
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Enhance emotional regulation.
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Boost energy and vitality.
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Improve sleep quality.
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Promote relaxation and mindfulness.
Do I need to have prior experience to try breathwork?
No experience is needed! Breathwork is accessible to everyone, and our app provides guided instructions to help you start at your own pace.
Is breathwork safe for everyone?
Breathwork is generally safe, but if you’re pregnant, have respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, or any serious medical issues, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning.
SCIENCE AND PHYSIOLOGY
What is the science behind breathwork?
Breathwork influences your autonomic nervous system, balancing the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) and sympathetic (“fight or flight”) responses. It also improves oxygenation, heart rate variability, and emotional regulation.
How does breathwork help with stress and anxiety?
Breathwork activates the parasympathetic nervous system, signaling your body to relax. Techniques like extended exhales and diaphragmatic breathing slow your heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce cortisol levels.
Can breathwork improve sleep?
Yes, breathwork techniques like 4-7-8 Breathing or progressive breathing can calm your mind, relax your body, and prepare you for restful sleep.
How does breathwork affect emotions?
Breathwork can help release stored emotions by increasing oxygen flow and stimulating areas of the brain linked to emotional regulation. This can lead to emotional breakthroughs or a sense of release.
APP BREATHWORK TECHNIQUE
What types of breathing techniques are available in the app?
There are a variety of techniques demonstrated in the Next Step App which include:​
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Box Breathing: A calming technique using a steady inhale, hold, exhale, and pause.
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Diaphragmatic Breathing: Deep belly breathing for relaxation.
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Alternate Nostril Breathing: Balancing breath for focus and harmony.
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Energising Breaths: Short, rhythmic breaths to boost energy.
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Extended Exhales: Slowing the breath to calm the mind and body.
How do I know which breathing technique to choose?
The app categorizes sessions by intention (e.g., relaxation, focus, energy, emotional release) to help you select a technique that aligns with your needs in the moment.
What is diaphragmatic breathing, and why is it important?
Diaphragmatic breathing is deep belly breathing that engages the diaphragm. It helps lower stress, improve oxygen intake, and promote relaxation by stimulating the vagus nerve.
Can breathwork increase my energy?
Yes! Techniques like Energizing Breath or Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) can stimulate your body and mind by increasing oxygen flow and activating your sympathetic nervous system.