breathing to heal from FibromyalgiaFibromyalgia is a condition that primarily affects women, with a female-to-male ratio of about 9:1. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known, but research suggests that it may be related to abnormal processing of pain signals in the brain and nervous system. The condition is characterised by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms such as sleep disturbances, headaches, and cognitive problems.
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help for chronic pain |
The link between breathing and fibromyalgia
While faulty breathing doesn't directly cause fibromyalgia, it can play a significant role in the development and persistence of chronic pain conditions. In fact, many people with fibromyalgia exhibit signs of severe dysfunctional breathing. When biomechanical overuse combines with the biochemical changes that are typical of breathing pattern disorders, it can have a significant impact on pain and fatigue.
Because breathing is already dysfunctional in people with fibromyalgia, they are constantly on the brink of symptoms. Any further drop in carbon dioxide can easily push their bodies over the edge. This is why pain often becomes worse during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle for women.
However, as the research shows and as we have experienced with our clients, with the right breathing habits, the worst symptoms of fibromyalgia can be alleviated or even eliminated. Correcting dysfunctional breathing can help to reduce pain, improve sleep, and increase overall quality of life for people with fibromyalgia.
A 2017 study investigated the effects of a functional breathing program on pain and sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. The program consisted of a series of breathing exercises aimed at improving breathing patterns and reducing muscle tension. After 8 weeks of the program, the participants reported improvements in pain tolerance and sleep quality, as well as a reduction in fatigue and difficulty carrying out daily activities.
These findings are consistent with other studies that have demonstrated the benefits of breathing exercises and other mind-body therapies for patients with fibromyalgia to improve pain management, and enhance overall physical and emotional well-being.
Because breathing is already dysfunctional in people with fibromyalgia, they are constantly on the brink of symptoms. Any further drop in carbon dioxide can easily push their bodies over the edge. This is why pain often becomes worse during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle for women.
However, as the research shows and as we have experienced with our clients, with the right breathing habits, the worst symptoms of fibromyalgia can be alleviated or even eliminated. Correcting dysfunctional breathing can help to reduce pain, improve sleep, and increase overall quality of life for people with fibromyalgia.
A 2017 study investigated the effects of a functional breathing program on pain and sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. The program consisted of a series of breathing exercises aimed at improving breathing patterns and reducing muscle tension. After 8 weeks of the program, the participants reported improvements in pain tolerance and sleep quality, as well as a reduction in fatigue and difficulty carrying out daily activities.
These findings are consistent with other studies that have demonstrated the benefits of breathing exercises and other mind-body therapies for patients with fibromyalgia to improve pain management, and enhance overall physical and emotional well-being.
Fibromyalgia and the menstrual cycle
Research has shown that the symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary during the menstrual cycle, with some women experiencing more pain and other symptoms during the luteal phase (the period between ovulation and the start of the next menstrual cycle) compared to the follicular phase (the period leading up to ovulation). This may be due to changes in the levels of sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can affect pain perception and sensitivity. Restoring functional breathing also helps with balancing sex hormones.
It is important to note that not all women with fibromyalgia experience changes in their symptoms during the menstrual cycle, and the condition can still be diagnosed based on other criteria such as the presence of tender points and a history of widespread pain.
It is important to note that not all women with fibromyalgia experience changes in their symptoms during the menstrual cycle, and the condition can still be diagnosed based on other criteria such as the presence of tender points and a history of widespread pain.
how we can help
We address all the pillars of breathing, including the biochemistry and mechanics. We develop personalised breath retraining programmes drawing on methods including Buteyko, yoga therapy and methods used in physiotherapy.
We offer individualised or small group coaching sessions. You can expect noticeable improvements from just two sessions and regular practise. Most clients get the best results from 5-6 sessions along with consistent practise between sessions. Whether you continue with us after that depends on your goals.
We offer individualised or small group coaching sessions. You can expect noticeable improvements from just two sessions and regular practise. Most clients get the best results from 5-6 sessions along with consistent practise between sessions. Whether you continue with us after that depends on your goals.
assessment
The first step is an extensive intake process, which allows us to get to know each other, as well as gather information about your holistic health history (physical, emotional and mental). We will also complete a structural assessment, check vital signs, assess your breathing patterns, and discuss your health goals.
Intake and assessment: 75-90 minutes | $140 NZD.
In person (if in Auckland), or online via video chat
(International clients: we accept Paypal and Bitcoin payments)
Intake and assessment: 75-90 minutes | $140 NZD.
In person (if in Auckland), or online via video chat
(International clients: we accept Paypal and Bitcoin payments)
program
We will then work together over an agreed period of time to create a customised practise for you. These sessions will take into consideration your needs, preferences and experiences in response to the tools we introduce. Homework and guided meditations may also be provided.
Each session will focus on addressing all levels of health and well-being, using postural correction techniques, breath retraining and breathing techniques, mindfulness, and guided meditation, all tailored to your unique needs.
Private in person or online Breathing to Heal Session: 1 hour 15 minutes $140 NZD
Corrective breathing mini sessions: 45 minutes $90
(International clients: we accept Paypal)
Each session will focus on addressing all levels of health and well-being, using postural correction techniques, breath retraining and breathing techniques, mindfulness, and guided meditation, all tailored to your unique needs.
Private in person or online Breathing to Heal Session: 1 hour 15 minutes $140 NZD
Corrective breathing mini sessions: 45 minutes $90
(International clients: we accept Paypal)
testimonials
"Danika is the best practitioner who I have ever worked with. I was diagnosed with glioblastoma almost a year and a half ago and had an awake brain surgery and radiotherapy and chemotherapy. My whole central nervous system needed gentle work even for the most simple movements. Danika is very careful that I fill my movements with tenderness and understanding as time is key to healing myself. Part of what really helps in this journey is a guided meditation which makes me feel very secure and part of the presence. This was difficult in the past, because I did different only aerobic yoga but didn’t understand the importance of the being in the present. After working with Danika I feel physically and emotionally stronger. Our sessions are such a lovely time of my week. Many thanks to Danika and I would recommend her to anyone.
Sandra, Ireland, UK
Sandra, Ireland, UK
I contacted Danika in early January after I had spent most of the previous year struggling with Long Covid. I had started to improve, and I knew that movement was important to my recovery, but that it had to be gentle and tailored to my needs to ensure that it did not trigger the overexertion / crash cycle. Danika is a yoga therapist – not just a yoga teacher. At our very first session she took a detailed “case history”. From there she was able to build me an individualised programme. Almost immediately working with Danika I found that I experienced a loosening of tension and increased openness in my rib cage and shoulders. Slowly but steadily my breathing started to feel more comfortable. My fatigue dropped away and I was able to get back to the things I was doing before – all with a feeling of being a bit more grounded.
I have also gained the confidence and capacity to attend local yoga class and know that I am doing it safely, for example, making the adjustments for my hypermobility and to pace myself according to my energy levels. Danika teaches the Buteyko breathing method. As an asthmatic, I had heard of this technique, but I had never given it a try. I have found that having a daily breath work practice has transformed my energy levels and my ability to find moments of calm in the day. It is now a daily habit that I am very grateful for. I recommend Danika's services to others.
Melanie, Auckland
I have also gained the confidence and capacity to attend local yoga class and know that I am doing it safely, for example, making the adjustments for my hypermobility and to pace myself according to my energy levels. Danika teaches the Buteyko breathing method. As an asthmatic, I had heard of this technique, but I had never given it a try. I have found that having a daily breath work practice has transformed my energy levels and my ability to find moments of calm in the day. It is now a daily habit that I am very grateful for. I recommend Danika's services to others.
Melanie, Auckland
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LOCATIONSWe currently operate from Glenfield, Northcote, Kumeu and Remuera in Auckland. Breathing specialist consultations are also available online via Zoom and Skype.
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FREE GUIDED MEDITATION TO CORRECT BREATHINGSign up to our mailing list and receive a link to your free 20-minute guided corrective breathing relaxation and begin your Breathing to Heal journey today.
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“I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship.
I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings. My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. I salute that Source in you. Let us work together for unity and love.” – Mahatma Gandhi – |
breathing to heal
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Birkenhead and Birkdale, North Shore, Auckland, New Zealand | International Yoga Therapy
Birkenhead and Birkdale, North Shore, Auckland, New Zealand | International Yoga Therapy