Breathing is one of the things we always do and are rarely aware of. Yet the breath is a powerful tool to directly influence the nervous system with sometimes wide reaching effects. In this 4 week course we will explore specific breathing practices and guided meditation around the breath. And we’ll relate these practices to a scientific understanding of its effects on the nervous system.

The very first thing we do in life is inhale, the very last (usually) exhale. Pretty major… And the way we breathe affects – and reflects – how we feel physically, mentally, and what mood we’re in.

Usually, this happens completely under the radar. However, we can deliberately work with the breath to up-regulate, calm or balance the nervous system. Which might mean that we feel more energised and able to focus, less stressed or anxious, more relaxed and less depressed. The breath is a powerful tool to tap directly into nervous system changes with sometimes wide reaching effects .

And we can also train the mind to simply be aware of the natural rhythm of breathing as we do in meditation. Meditation now has a very good evidence base showing that it balances the nervous system and affects body and mind beneficially in various ways.

The course is open to everyone including complete beginners. There will be short talks, guided breathwork and meditation practices, and some time to deepen understanding through sharing in a small group and discussion.