Somatic Breathwork

Somatic Breathwork can be helpful if you:

• Struggle with stress or anxiety

• Experience physical sensations of tension or chronic discomfort or pain

• Seek insight and emotional healing without diving immediately into traditional therapy

• Want to deepen body awareness and reconnect with your true self

• Are looking for a complementary tool alongside psychotherapy or mental well-being practices

While Somatic Breathwork offers many benefits, it is not a substitute for psychotherapy. It is not appropriate for:

• Pregnant women

• Cardiovascular problems (angina, heart attack, high blood pressure)

• Glaucoma, retinal detachment, osteoporosis

• History of seizures, stroke, major psychiatric conditions

• Recent surgery, acute infectious illness, epilepsy

Clients with asthma should bring their inhaler and consult their physician before booking.

Somatic Breathwork is a holistic approach that uses intentional control of bodily functions and the power of your breath to access and process emotion. It doesn’t include many of the profoundly helpful aspects of clinical therapy, but it can complement psychotherapy by increasing access to insights and emotions, shifting your mental states, and regulating your autonomic nervous system.

Absolutely. If you are only engaging in Somatic Breathwork with Michelle, please note that she serves as your Breathworker, not your therapist.

Yes! Amazingly, online breathing sessions deliver the same benefits as in-person sessions. To prepare:

• Find a private, quiet space free from distractions

• Wear loose, non-restrictive clothing for full rib cage and abdominal breathing

• Use headphones and place your camera so your head and torso are visible

• Have a water bottle, blanket, eye mask, or journal on hand if you like

Michelle will guide you through every inhale and exhale, ensuring you stay connected to your own breath and body awareness.

It is completely up to you. For example, some like doing a full breathwork journey every other week, while others like going on as as-needed or as-can-be-afforded basis. Some like integrating breathing exercises into their daily routines.

Not at this time. Individual breathwork sessions are generally considered a holistic practice rather than a medical treatment, so most insurance plans do not cover them. Michelle offers flexible payment via Zelle, PayPal, cash, or check, plus a limited sliding fee scale to accommodate different budgets.

To maximize comfort and safety during your Arlington, VA session, consider bringing:

• A black out eye mask and blanket

• Your own small pillow or bolster for support if you don’t want to use the ones provided

• A water bottle to stay hydrated

• A journal to record insights

A mat is provided. Wear breathable clothing that allows for full chest and abdominal expansion so you can experience deeper somatic breathing and optimal body awareness.

Absolutely. Group breathwork session options are available for those seeking community or couple support along their personal growth journey. Email michellemaylpc@hushmail.com to learn about group rates and scheduling.

Somatic Breathwork is suitable for most adults, but Michelle only works with those 18 and older. Participants with certain health conditions (e.g., cardiovascular issues, glaucoma, recent surgery, or epilepsy) should consult their physician before booking.

A Full Breathwork Journey (90 minutes) is designed as your ideal starting point. If you happen to be nervous and want to try something shorter, the Mini Breathwork Journey can help you ease in.

Yes! Michelle leads customized group breathwork session workshops for retreats, corporate events, and employee wellness programs. To inquire, email michellemaylpc@hushmail.com.