Today I chat with Barney Mercer, an expert breathwork facilitator. We delve deep into the transformative power of breathwork, a practice that is not only changing lives but is also gaining traction as a powerful tool in mental health and well-being. Through our discussion, Barney shares his personal journey and the potential of breathwork to unlock emotional and physiological healing.
The conversation delves into various types of breathwork, and covers the significant physiological impacts of controlled breathing. Barney also talks about guiding men's breathwork sessions, setting up a safe and comfortable environment, and teaching the science of breathing for mental health and performance. They explore the potential for breathwork to be included in educational curriculums and corporate settings, advocating for broader access to this powerful practice.
What You'll Learn:
Introduction to Breathwork: Discover what breathwork involves and why it is considered a powerful, yet underutilized, tool for mental health.
Emotional Releases: Understand how breathwork sessions can lead to profound emotional releases, helping individuals process and let go of deep-seated traumas and stress.
Physiological Impact: Learn about the physical effects of breathwork, including the impact on neurotransmitters and the potential release of naturally occurring DMT during intense sessions.
Barney's Journey: Gain insight into Barney’s personal transformation through breathwork and how it led him to become a facilitator, helping others achieve similar breakthroughs.
Group Dynamics in Breathwork: Explore how shared energy in group sessions can enhance individual experiences and lead to collective healing.
Breathwork and Science: Dive into the scientific aspects of breathwork, such as CO2 tolerance and its effects on anxiety and stress management.
Future Vision: Barney shares his vision for integrating breathwork into everyday environments, emphasising its potential to benefit everyone from school children to corporate employees.
Resources:
Connect with Barney Mercer:
Breathwork has the potential to revolutionise our approach to mental and physical health. By embracing this natural and transformative practice, we can unlock new avenues for healing and personal growth. Whether you're new to breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, Barney's insights offer invaluable guidance on this powerful journey.
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01:06 Experiences with Breath Work
05:39 The Science and Impact of Breath Work
07:20 Barney's Journey to Breath Work
20:04 The Power of Group Sessions
33:05 Struggles with Traditional Psychology
34:10 Introduction to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
35:25 Creating a Safe Space for Breathwork
36:49 Men's Breathwork Sessions
42:20 The Power of Emotional Release
50:38 The Science of Breathwork
59:08 Breathwork in Schools and Corporates
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