The world is in love with Breathwork. It is everywhere and available in various forms and formats, ranging from one-on-one sessions, large groups using music, and online offerings. The original system of Pranayama used for Spiritual development has been around for centuries. Many types of Breathwork are still heavily influenced by ancient Eastern practices which continue today. There has been an evolution over time, and modern-day Breathwork now incorporates elements of Western modalities.  

Over the last 20 years, there have been many twists and turns as modern-day breathwork has developed. While the emphasis on breathing may seem deceptively simple, our breath is central to life, health, and well-being. It has long been known that proper breathing and altering the breath in a particular way can restore and improve overall emotional, physical, and mental health. Most of the programs are good, and many are benefitting from participating.  

IBT is born. This method evolved from my personal journey and my return to my authentic self. My story was a long and painful one as I battled severe migraine headaches for years. I challenged myself to keep going, exploring alternative therapies and attending training and meditation workshops. I used bodywork to release physical tension. It was a process that eventually paid off through active breathing, emotional processing, and the support of a trained facilitator; the contracted energy was suddenly released. I was finally free from the migraines. 

I began to integrate elements of my journey into my work with private clients, and the results were astounding. Some were ill and looking for health. Others were anxious or depressed. And some who were stuck and wanted to make a change. My awareness of an individual’s breathing pattern and how it reflected the hidden truth brought a deeper understanding of the way the body deals with trauma. I learned by experimenting with various breathing techniques, using appropriate energy release processes, and providing corrective experiences for my clients. I learned what to do and not to do, when to speak, and when to be quiet. There is enormous value in being fully present with a client while they are healing their bodies, changing beliefs, reclaiming their power, and rewriting their stories.

What is IBT? I am often asked what makes Integral Breath Therapy (IBT) different from other systems of Breathwork. IBT is a transformational process that uses an altered state of consciousness as the impetus for profound and lasting change. The IBT process cannot be underestimated, and its impact cannot be ignored. It has a powerful, energetic component that connects us to something greater, more powerful, and distinctly creative. There is a part in us that knows exactly what needs to happen in order to heal. 

IBT is not a bandage that temporarily covers a wound but goes deeper to heal what is below the surface, to the origin of the trauma. Through my experiences with individuals and groups, I learned that there are times when old trauma can be suddenly unleashed, and this can be healing if the facilitator knows how to handle the situation. I also witnessed situations where revisiting the traumatic situation caused the trauma to deepen. This is the reason why proper training is crucial.

This body-centered process weaves various tools and techniques along with the breath.  The result was a unique modality that has a wide range of applications that can be used for managing stress, physical healing, building self-esteem, emotional balancing, personal growth, Spiritual development, and more. Although IBT may be offered as a stand-alone therapy, it’s often used to enhance the benefits of other methods or medical treatment. Once the client understands how to use the process, they have a powerful self-development tool that can be used to continue their personal growth and transformation.