Breathwork

Cognitive communication disorders can manifest in a various ways, such as difficulties with language comprehension, expression, memory, attention, and problem-solving. This can happen after a brain injury, stroke, or be connected with a diagnosis like ADHD. While there are many therapy techniques to manage these difficulties, there is a lesser-known yet powerful complementary technique that can significantly improve cognitive communication: breathwork.

Breathwork refers to the holistic practice of consciously changing our breath for a purpose: enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The fundamental principle behind breathwork is that altering the way we breathe can positively impact how we feel in our bodies and minds.

So, how can breath work affect communication?

1. Stress reduction: Cognitive communication difficulties can worsen when we’re stressed or anxious. Breathwork techniques activate the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response.

2. Emotional regulation: Many individuals experience frustration due to these challenges. Breathwork fosters emotional regulation, helping us remain calm. Often times, frustrating situations leave people feeling tired and drained. Implementing breathwork during challenging times can save energy for later.

3. Awareness: Breathwork practices encourage individuals to be present and aware of their thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Heightened awareness can aid in recognizing communication difficulties and identifying strategies to overcome them.

4. The benefits of breath work are countless. Some additional benefits that may be experienced include improved focus and attention, more energy in the brain and body, and better rest at night.

So, what are some simple breath work techniques?

1. Box breathing: Visualize a square, you will trace the outline of this box as you breathe. Inhale for a count of four, pause for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, pause for another count of four. Repeat.

2. Breath counting: Inhale for a count, exhale for the same count. Repeat. Try to lengthen your breath in and out. You may want to try a count of 4, 5, or 8; it doesn’t matter, just try to match your inhales & exhales.

3. Take Five Meditation: Use one hand to trace along the fingers of your other hand, breath in as you trace up each finger, breath out as you trace down each finger.

4. 4-7-8 breathing: Inhale for a count of 4. Hold for a count of 7. Exhale for a count of 8. Repeat. Adjust the counts to work best for you. You want your exhale to be longer, or the same as, your inhale.

Breathwork offers a myriad of benefits that can be instrumental in supporting individuals with cognitive communication disorders. By incorporating breathwork techniques throughout the day, individuals may experience reduced stress, emotional regulation, increased awareness, and overall improved communication.