Preparing the Body to Receive

From Simon’s Desk

Recently, I have introduced a short alternate-nostril breathing exercise at the beginning of many sessions.

It takes only a few moments. The client completes three gentle breaths, alternating between the left and right nostrils.

Although it is brief, the response can be noticeable. Many people describe feeling clearer, calmer and less mentally cluttered. Tension may begin to ease, and the chatter in the mind can become quieter.

This exercise is adapted from the yogic breathing practice known as Nadi Shodhana, or alternate-nostril breathing.

Traditionally, Nadi Shodhana is practised for two to three minutes or longer. The three breaths we use at the beginning of a session are simply a starting point—a way of helping the person pause, become present and begin moving out of a heightened stress response.

Moving from Fight or Flight to Rest and Recovery

The autonomic nervous system helps regulate many of the processes within the body that happen without conscious thought.

The sympathetic nervous system is commonly associated with the fight-or-flight response. It prepares the body to respond to pressure, danger or perceived threat.

The parasympathetic nervous system supports rest, digestion and recovery. It helps the body settle after stress and return towards a calmer and more regulated state.

One of the major pathways within the parasympathetic nervous system is the vagus nerve. It begins in the lower brain and travels through the neck, heart and digestive system, helping regulate communication between the mind and body.

Slow, deliberate breathing can help the body begin to settle. It does not mean that every problem disappears after three breaths. It means we are creating a calmer internal environment and preparing the client to receive the work that follows.

Preparing for the Vivaxis Connection

Once the breathing has helped bring the person into the present moment, I work with the vagus nerve and the Vivaxis connection.

I understand it as an electromagnetic umbilical cord connecting you with the energetic imprint of the place where you entered this life.

When the Vivaxis connection is clear and aligned, it helps provide a stronger energetic foundation for the spiritual and emotional clearing that follows.

The alternate-nostril breathing, vagus nerve activation and Vivaxis connection each serve a different purpose:

Together, they help prepare the client’s mind, body and energetic system to receive the best possible results from the clearing and alignment completed during the session.

A Small Practice with a Clear Purpose

No two people arrive with the same story, so no two sessions ever unfold in quite the same way.

Some people feel a distinct shift after the first few breaths. Others notice only that their mind feels a little quieter or their body feels less tense.

There is no correct response and nothing needs to be forced.

— Simon