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The Power of Breathwork: Simple Practices to Promote Wellbeing
Drawing on a multitude of breathing practices from different healing and spiritual traditions, The Power of Breathwork includes 25 simple exercises that you can practice alone or with a partner.
Knowing how to breathe and how to use your breath purposefully has been proven to reduce negative mental and physical issues and actually heal the body and mind. A regular home breathwork practice is an affordable and easy way for you to engage in self-healing practices that can have a profound impact on your overall health. Harness the power of breathwork
Author, practitioner, and grief worker Jennifer Patterson begins by explaining what breathwork is, why you should try it, and how it can be used to heal the bodymind. Then, you’ll learn what happens in your physical body, energetic body, and emotional body as you practice it. Before you start the exercises, find useful tips on building an altar, using scent, visualizations and grounding, and somatic writing prompts to help support your practice.
After achieving collaboration and deeper trust with your body through practices such as a nurturing body scan and learning to catch and shift out of breath-holding patterns, return to yourself with these solo breath 4-7-8 Breath, Energizing Breath, Box Breath, Pursed Lip Breath, Lion’s Breath, Diaphragm Breath, Alternate Nostril Breath, Skull Shining Breath, Ocean Breath, and Multi-Part Fast-Paced Breath.
With a partner, use breath to work with witnessing and being witnessed, giving and receiving touch, and navigating conflict. Through these practices, you can breathe into a deeper relationship with another.
For more focused breathwork practice , you will also find exercises that work with themes such as creativity, easing perfection narratives, inviting laughter and joy, cutting energetic ties to harmful dynamics, plus dedicated practices for welcoming the new day and then, when it is done, releasing the day and inviting sleep.
The Power of Breathwork provides you with simple and approachable ways to intentionally and effectively breathe to bring healing and joy.
Knowing how to breathe and how to use your breath purposefully has been proven to reduce negative mental and physical issues and actually heal the body and mind. A regular home breathwork practice is an affordable and easy way for you to engage in self-healing practices that can have a profound impact on your overall health. Harness the power of breathwork
Author, practitioner, and grief worker Jennifer Patterson begins by explaining what breathwork is, why you should try it, and how it can be used to heal the bodymind. Then, you’ll learn what happens in your physical body, energetic body, and emotional body as you practice it. Before you start the exercises, find useful tips on building an altar, using scent, visualizations and grounding, and somatic writing prompts to help support your practice.
After achieving collaboration and deeper trust with your body through practices such as a nurturing body scan and learning to catch and shift out of breath-holding patterns, return to yourself with these solo breath 4-7-8 Breath, Energizing Breath, Box Breath, Pursed Lip Breath, Lion’s Breath, Diaphragm Breath, Alternate Nostril Breath, Skull Shining Breath, Ocean Breath, and Multi-Part Fast-Paced Breath.
With a partner, use breath to work with witnessing and being witnessed, giving and receiving touch, and navigating conflict. Through these practices, you can breathe into a deeper relationship with another.
For more focused breathwork practice , you will also find exercises that work with themes such as creativity, easing perfection narratives, inviting laughter and joy, cutting energetic ties to harmful dynamics, plus dedicated practices for welcoming the new day and then, when it is done, releasing the day and inviting sleep.
The Power of Breathwork provides you with simple and approachable ways to intentionally and effectively breathe to bring healing and joy.
128 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2020
36 people are currently reading
598 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 27, 2020
I have been practicing meditation/mindfulness for over 2 years now, so when I saw this book, I thought it would be interesting to explore a related area. Before I get onto reviewing the contents, let me just say what a beautiful little book this is! The cover is lovely (in fact it is the reason I was drawn in), and every single page has an attractive background and border.
I think this is a good introduction to the subject. It covers the basic concepts, what breathwork can be used for, and so on, in an informative way that is suitable for a complete beginner such as myself. I don’t feel that building an altar would be for me, and I was disappointed by the lack of science (or even brief references to where you could look it up), but otherwise a good overview.
The volume then covers a number of different breathwork exercises to use, varying in difficulty and length. I like the way these are laid out, it makes it very clear what you will need, and what to do. There are clear diagrams accompanying the text instructions, which I found helpful. I was slightly disappointed that although it is mentioned in the previous section to use whatever position you are comfortable in, there are no examples of ideal alternative positions (for disabled people, such as myself, who are limited as to sitting and so on) under each exercise, as I would assume that after initially reading the book, people will just turn to the exercise they wish to carry out. However, it is mentioned that a voice recorder or similar, can be used instead of handwriting post exercise. I unfortunately haven’t had time to try out any of the exercises.
Overall, I felt this was an excellent introduction to the practice of breathwork, easy to read, and beautiful to look at. If there are future books or editions, it would be lovely to see it become more easily inclusive.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
I think this is a good introduction to the subject. It covers the basic concepts, what breathwork can be used for, and so on, in an informative way that is suitable for a complete beginner such as myself. I don’t feel that building an altar would be for me, and I was disappointed by the lack of science (or even brief references to where you could look it up), but otherwise a good overview.
The volume then covers a number of different breathwork exercises to use, varying in difficulty and length. I like the way these are laid out, it makes it very clear what you will need, and what to do. There are clear diagrams accompanying the text instructions, which I found helpful. I was slightly disappointed that although it is mentioned in the previous section to use whatever position you are comfortable in, there are no examples of ideal alternative positions (for disabled people, such as myself, who are limited as to sitting and so on) under each exercise, as I would assume that after initially reading the book, people will just turn to the exercise they wish to carry out. However, it is mentioned that a voice recorder or similar, can be used instead of handwriting post exercise. I unfortunately haven’t had time to try out any of the exercises.
Overall, I felt this was an excellent introduction to the practice of breathwork, easy to read, and beautiful to look at. If there are future books or editions, it would be lovely to see it become more easily inclusive.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
February 21, 2021
Suosituuuus! (Mikä on tämä selfehelpin tarve nyt hei!)
January 27, 2020
I received this book, for free, in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a basic yet fairly comprehensive overview of breathwork.
In the beginning it felt like it was going to be too basic, but got into its stride when it listed a dozen or so breath work practices. It also had a section on partner based practices which will be less useful for me. It was a pretty great book, the only gripe I have is that it seems like there should be more useful breath practices out there (the book feels a little basic as such).
This book is a basic yet fairly comprehensive overview of breathwork.
In the beginning it felt like it was going to be too basic, but got into its stride when it listed a dozen or so breath work practices. It also had a section on partner based practices which will be less useful for me. It was a pretty great book, the only gripe I have is that it seems like there should be more useful breath practices out there (the book feels a little basic as such).
December 1, 2023
el poder de la respiración tiene una pequeña introducción en donde la autora comenta brevemente la importancia de la respiración, que procesos ocurren en el cuerpo cuando se respiran, y como se crea una práctica de respiración. el resto del libro son diferentes ejercicios de respiración con diferentes enfoques (por ejemplo, traer calma, bajar los niveles de ansiedad/estres, llevar a la consciencia corporal, aumentar energía, etc). también, hay un apartado de trabajos de respiración en compañia de otra persona. me gustó harto el libro, sobre todo por el enfoque y los ejercicios que trae; es un librito en donde tienes un resumen de varios ejercicios de respiración, todo muy condensado y ordenado.
4/5 estrellitas para este librito
4/5 estrellitas para este librito
May 27, 2021
This book gives a simple introduction to the concept of breath work and gives a number of breathing exercises to try out. It's a very basic but straightforward book.
Ideal for beginners but not for anyone looking for more in depth information about breathwork.
Ideal for beginners but not for anyone looking for more in depth information about breathwork.
April 6, 2021
This topic is currently taking a lot of interest. The book offers an entertaining and well-articulated introduction, provides a well-informed and serious foundation to begin practice. I was very pleased that the author introduces herself at the beginning of the book, she shares the process of her topic and you can feel her genuine intention.
It is a visually pleasing book. DK is known for its visuals, which are chosen both for their aesthetics and their educational effectiveness, and their high standards hold here as well.
Highly recommended for practical people, as the book has many well explained exercises with diagrams to get you started. In addition, she advises how to build a well-structured practice, not only to develop conscious embodiment, but with the healing potential at all levels of Being. Perhaps it is not a book for overly intellectual people, who are looking for a long list of scientific data on why it works. But a true skeptic is one who will explore and experience it for himself.
It is a visually pleasing book. DK is known for its visuals, which are chosen both for their aesthetics and their educational effectiveness, and their high standards hold here as well.
Highly recommended for practical people, as the book has many well explained exercises with diagrams to get you started. In addition, she advises how to build a well-structured practice, not only to develop conscious embodiment, but with the healing potential at all levels of Being. Perhaps it is not a book for overly intellectual people, who are looking for a long list of scientific data on why it works. But a true skeptic is one who will explore and experience it for himself.
December 28, 2020
I was introduced to the concept of doing breathing exercises about 30 years ago and have done yoga for years, but this is the first book that I have read on the topic. I was a little annoyed with the first three chapters which I felt was too much beating around the bush and I wanted to get directly to the exercises which begins in chapter 4 (which is halfway into the book). One chapter tries to get you just to connect your body and mind to your breath, the next has solo breathing exercises, another chapter is for partner breath work, then there is a chapter about meditations using breathing. The book has plenty of bullet points, sidebar boxes, and lists so that the text in paragraphs is never boring, long, or intimidating. I like the design of the book with its pastel and muted colors. I found the book very easy to read this could easily be understood by high school students. Reading 4 stars = like it.
March 6, 2020
A great introduction to the benefits and different techniques of deep breathing and would be great for those suffering anxiety for anxiety or simply wanting more ways to relax.
Great for both understanding the physical/emotional benefits of breathwork and getting started. This book is well-written and easy to understand.
The book covers multiple types of breathing techniques and gives many options for meditation to choose from.
I loved reading about how to connect with your body with depp breathing and that aspect very helpful. The book has a good layout and flows well.
I recieved this book from NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Fair Winds Press for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Great for both understanding the physical/emotional benefits of breathwork and getting started. This book is well-written and easy to understand.
The book covers multiple types of breathing techniques and gives many options for meditation to choose from.
I loved reading about how to connect with your body with depp breathing and that aspect very helpful. The book has a good layout and flows well.
I recieved this book from NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group – Fair Winds Press for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2023
I really liked how the author started the book with importance of breath and what happens to your body when you do breathwork. There is also information on building a breathwork practice, along with how to do solo and partner breathwork. There are also suggestions for self inquiry and affirmations that you can do with at the beginning or end of each session. I have been practising mindfulness for a while and breathwork forms a large part of it. Having a ready resource with suggestions of breathwork practice in various situations or times of the day is very handy.
The only criticism I have of the book is that the author has not linked different breathwork practices to their origins, whether it be yogic traditions or the more modern methods.
The only criticism I have of the book is that the author has not linked different breathwork practices to their origins, whether it be yogic traditions or the more modern methods.
January 31, 2020
I really enjoyed The Power of Breathwork. Jennifer Patterson walks you through a variety of breathing exercises that you can do alone or with a partner.
Patterson's respect for the work as well as the contraindications impresses me. I take her seriously and that makes me want to try each exercise.
Patterson also prepares you for the emotional and physical outcomes. She encourages journaling and gives you prompts to help with this process.
I would recommend this to anyone who needs a way to relax and haven't found something that works.
I received an ARC through NetGalley; all opinions are my own.
Patterson's respect for the work as well as the contraindications impresses me. I take her seriously and that makes me want to try each exercise.
Patterson also prepares you for the emotional and physical outcomes. She encourages journaling and gives you prompts to help with this process.
I would recommend this to anyone who needs a way to relax and haven't found something that works.
I received an ARC through NetGalley; all opinions are my own.
February 12, 2020
Great introduction to breathwork and a beautifully presented book.
I felt a lot of the exercises were very similar, especially in the last section, and found myself losing interest or not really reading the finer details.
Some exercises say to practice with a breathwork coach or practitioner first, which seems counterintuitive. If you are already working with a coach, wouldn't they be prescribing the exercises?
Really enjoyed the first half of the book, not particularly relevant for myself after the solo breathing exercises.
**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publishers and netgalley for an honest review.
I felt a lot of the exercises were very similar, especially in the last section, and found myself losing interest or not really reading the finer details.
Some exercises say to practice with a breathwork coach or practitioner first, which seems counterintuitive. If you are already working with a coach, wouldn't they be prescribing the exercises?
Really enjoyed the first half of the book, not particularly relevant for myself after the solo breathing exercises.
**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publishers and netgalley for an honest review.
November 4, 2022
I am not exactly brand new to breathwork, I have been interested in it for quite some time now, and I have tried several techniques and it has surprised me each time what a powerful thing it is and how come it is so overlooked by most people out there.
This book has it all. It explains what it is, and what it is not, and it has plenty of useful advice on how to get started. This is something I will be recommending to those who say they want to try breathwork on their own, without taking part in any workshops or having someone with them who is telling them how to do it.
This book has it all. It explains what it is, and what it is not, and it has plenty of useful advice on how to get started. This is something I will be recommending to those who say they want to try breathwork on their own, without taking part in any workshops or having someone with them who is telling them how to do it.
November 29, 2022
A great introductory guide to breathwork for beginners. The layout is appealing and the different techniques presented are for solo as well as partnered work. This was more in-depth than some other beginner guides I’ve read, and the exercises are definitely worthwhile for anxiety.
Recommended.
Temporary PDF kindly provided by Fair Winds Press / Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley. Opinions shared are my own.
Recommended.
Temporary PDF kindly provided by Fair Winds Press / Quarto Publishing Group and NetGalley. Opinions shared are my own.
January 5, 2023
The Power of Breathwork by Jennifer Patterson. Introduction to breathing techniques book with exercises for learning how to practice breathwork. Useful tips and techniques for incorporating breathwork into various aspects of life and breathing for better health. A well-presented, well-written, and easily understood book will be a valuable resource.
Thank you to the author, publisher, Netgalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Thank you to the author, publisher, Netgalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
December 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I'm a student therapist and I can see the acitivites in this book being useful in both in my practice and also in my daily life. I particularly liked how the book was broken down making it easy to pick up practices in different areas of life. I will be buying a copy of this book to have on hand.
January 2, 2020
This is a helpful introduction to breathwork. The book first describes the science behind breathwork in the body and then provides 27 different breathing exercises.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on January 28, 2020.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on January 28, 2020.
March 2, 2021
The book itself is beautiful. This is the third book I’ve read in recent memory concerning the breath and breathwork, and by far the most concerned with personal healing and more esoteric ideas. The author does supply solid instruction alongside a variety of exercises and techniques.
March 30, 2021
Incredible and intuitive teachings! I absolutely loved the simplistic structure yet deep knowledge offered in this book. I will be using the practices and insight throughout my journey for my own routine and as I guide others.
September 16, 2022
As a complete beginner to breathwork, I found this book to be so useful. The information about the importance of breath work was easy to digest and the instructions/steps for each practice was clear. Highly recommend it!
November 12, 2022
Thank you for the advanced copy. I have read a through books on breathwork and I believe this is fabulous introductory book to anyone new to breathwork. It very well written, the layout is excellent and I love the idea of working on this together as a couple.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
November 15, 2022
Arc Review
This was such a well structured book. It’s one that I will definitely add as a breathe work bible on my shelves to reference back to once it comes out. I look forward to the final published copy.
All the stars.
This was such a well structured book. It’s one that I will definitely add as a breathe work bible on my shelves to reference back to once it comes out. I look forward to the final published copy.
All the stars.
March 14, 2025
A good workbook for anyone who wants to quickly do a breathing exercise for a specific purpose.
Shortcomings are that there’s no background on why the exercise works. It also has a limited number of exercises.
Shortcomings are that there’s no background on why the exercise works. It also has a limited number of exercises.
August 23, 2022
3.5
Great for Breathwork intro if you haven't heard of it or never practiced it.
Great for Breathwork intro if you haven't heard of it or never practiced it.
November 17, 2022
Well written and very interesting. A great introduction to breathing techniques and learning how to use your breathe properly
December 17, 2022
I thought this was really good, very interesting and some useful advice.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley for my complimentary copy in return for my honest review.
December 27, 2022
I thought this was very interesting and useful. This could be great for someone with high anxiety and panic disorders.
January 25, 2023
Molto molto utile!
March 20, 2025
Amazing book! Helped my personal practice & helps how to teach breathwork.
January 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Wonderful applications for learning to train your body for meditative breath works. I like the specific breathing exercises for creativity, breathing through conflicts and a great exercise for breathing to settle down for bed at night.
One of the most resourceful things provided in this book are the affirmation vows that really allow you to set importance and intentions to your affirmations.
One of the most resourceful things provided in this book are the affirmation vows that really allow you to set importance and intentions to your affirmations.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews