Case Study: Introducing Connected Breathing for Emotional Awareness

Sam (name changed), a male in his 30s, was interested in learning about breathing techniques but was initially sceptical of their relevance to his depression. Friendly and open yet low in energy, he responded more readily to the physical effects of exercises than to emotional shifts. The intervention focused on gradually introducing connected breathing to build awareness of both bodily sensations and emotional states, supporting safe and sustainable exploration of his inner experience.

The Situation

• Client: Sam, adult male

• Initial Presentation: Keen to learn about breathing, but skeptical about its relevance to his main psychological concerns (rooted in depression). Friendly, open, but low in energy.

• Observations: Physical effects of breathing exercises were more noticeable to him than mental or emotional shifts. Needed to process physical sensations before engaging with emotional aspects.

• Goal: Improve understanding and application of breathing techniques, explore potential emotional benefits gradually.

Deciding on a Protocol

• Assessment: Sam responded well to daily breathing exercises but had not yet experienced mental or emotional effects.

• Considerations: Connected breathing can produce strong physical sensations and emotional release; needed cautious, incremental introduction.

• Decision: Begin with foundational seated, standing, and lying exercises, then progress to a single guided connected breathing session once client was comfortable with home practice.

The Protocol

• Approach:

  • Session 1: Introduced various exercises to increase awareness of breathing in different postures, focusing on physical sensations.

  • Session 2: Daily home practice reinforced integration of exercises into routine. Connected Breathing: Conducted lying down, guided throughout; halted at 20 minutes due to intense cramping (tetany), followed by a 10-minute rest period.

• Support: Provided reassurance and guidance to help manage physical intensity and encourage processing of emotional experience.

  
  

Outcome

• Immediate Effects: Richly emotional experience during post-exercise rest; able to express emotions freely.

• Temporary relief of depression symptoms

• Client Feedback: Reported feeling liberated and gaining new perspective on approaching life positively.

• Integration: Daily exercises continued to support both preventive and curative needs.

Overall Result: Successful introduction of connected breathing, fostering awareness of emotional states while maintaining client safety and comfort; foundation laid for deeper exploration in future sessions.