Sneak Peak of module 6 in my Space to Breathe program
Year Long program *2 spots left, begins January 2, 2022
Breathwork Masterclass Workshop Series
The Throat Chakra (visshuddha: "to purify") is symbolized with the element of ether or space and is the portal for respiration and self-expression, which includes the right to speak, to be heard and to listen generously. A healthy throat chakra allows us to feel the immense space within and around us, to express with resonance, to harmoniously collaborate with others, and to communicate with space, creativity, rhythm and inclusion, all of which cultivate more WE Consciousness versus the I Consciousness. To be the best communicators we can be (with ourselves and with others), we need to practice the ability to pause before we speak, to think again to update our beliefs and perceptions. And like any habit, it gets easier, more efficient and more effective with practice.
T.H.I.N.K: Is it true? Is it helpful? Is it inspiring? Is it necessary? Is it kind?
Effective Expression includes the energy you are emitting with body language, the words you speak and think, and the tone you communicate with. Total communication can be broken down as 58% body language, 35% tone of voice, and 7% content or words spoken. We communicate with so much more than the words we use. Generally speaking, we attune to the moment on the inhale and we express primarily on the exhale. Therefore, how you breathe, the quality of your inhale, the felt experience of your exhale, and your ability to breathe with spaciousness and ease, are all reflected in the quality of your expression and communication.
"Only through self-expression does the outer world get to know what is inside of us. We only know what's inside someone when they choose to tell us. Self-expression in the fifth chakra is a counterpart to the sensate reception coming in through the second chakra. In the second chakra, we opened a gate that allowed the world in through our senses. In the fifth chakra, we open a gate that allows our inner self to get out into the world." - Anodea Judith (Eastern Body Western Mind)
There is reactive momentum and responsive momentum. Reactivity is momentum driven unconsciously, literally a re-enacting of the past, and serves to protect, defend, or fight what is happening in the moment. A reaction is a drama played out in an effort to sedate and control the cause of our upsetting experience. The theme of all reactive behavior is blame and revenge, clear signs of a nervous system that has been activated into its survival role, and this will be reflected in how your breath is moving or not moving.
Responsive action is momentum rooted in taking charge of our inner discomfort, being with what we feel and then choosing our response from the loving attention of Higher Wisdom. Response-ability arrives as we step back and notice the reactive loops beginning to play out, and pause to connect with the breath with our full attention. A response is a conscious choice to contain and constructively internalize the surfacing energy with the intent of healing past wounds so we can show up with compassion, curiosity and inclusivity. We respond by unconditionally feeling the emotional state unfolding within us without outwardly projecting it onto others. We notice our nervous system reacting as if there is danger afoot, and we turn inwards to meet the activation with our own loving presence, consequently increasing safety signals and gifting us the space to "think again." To be response-able is to recognize we are able to respond deliberately regardless of the initial impulsive reaction.
Our voice and our respiration is often a naked display of what is going on internally. In this module we take our breath exploration and practice a layer deeper to get to know the pause that allows an authentic and spacious discernment between reaction and response, recognizing again that the breath is both the message and the messenger.
In this module, we explore the complex relationship between oxygen and carbon dioxide, and the immediate and profound impact this has on your felt experience, rhythm of breath and quality of expression. It is here, at the level of chemistry, we begin painting a picture and building a clear path that connects how we breathe and our ability to expand the window of tolerance and elevate the physiological baseline that is dictating the pace of your breath.
What you will discover here is that using mild air hunger techniques is a powerful and efficient way to access positive stress resiliency that leads to retraining your innate breathing reflex towards a longer, softer, smoother rhythm.
Before we dive in, use these reflection questions to create some clarity in your current expression habits and how they may be compensatory patterns due to a low or fixed threshold. As we take our journey onwards into this vital step of breath mastery, pay close attention to how your communication shifts and changes.
Do you often express yourself honestly and openly when you need to? What/when is this true for you, and what/when is this not true for you?
What stands out to you in your own expression habits and patterns?
What do you truly desire for your own expression? How do you want to feel about your ability to communicate (i.e. listen generously and express yourself)?
Curious to learn more or be a part of this deep dive into your breath and its grip on your psyche? Join me in the Space to Breathe program, or reach out for a one on one coaching experience.
marinmccue@gmail.com