Effective communication and emotional connection serve as the foundation of lasting love
romantic relationships. However, in the midst of life’s challenges, stress often infiltrates these bonds, driving
in misunderstandings and disagreements. Here, merging John Gottman’s research on
Physiological stimulation and the transformative power of breath give couples deep
avenue for deeper understanding, empathy and intimacy in healing.
Couples therapy, a sacred space where partners explore their dynamics and nurture their bond,
it finds new dimensions when imbued with Gottman’s research ideas and serenity
influence of breathing. By incorporating breathing techniques into therapy sessions,
Couples unlock new pathways for healing, growth and harmonious coexistence.
Gottman’s research emphasizes the critical role of physiological arousal and affect
of “flooding” in relational conflicts. When individuals experience increased arousal, their body
enter a fight-or-flight state, reducing their ability to engage in constructive communication and
Problem Solving. However, by incorporating breathing practices into couples therapy, partners
gain tools to regulate their autonomic nervous system, bringing calm to chaos and creating
space for meaningful connection.
What is breathing?
Breathwork serves as a bridge between the conscious and subconscious realms, facilitating
profound changes in perception and emotions. Through synchronized breathing exercises, partners
tune into each other’s rhythms, cultivating a sense of unity and alignment that goes beyond words
single. As they breathe together, barriers dissolve and vulnerability emerges, creating a fertile
ground for authentic connection and mutual empathy.
In addition, breathing acts as a catalyst for stress reduction and emotional regulation, which is essential
components of effective communication within relationships. With deep, deliberate practice
by breathing, couples activate the body’s relaxation response, relieving tension and unwinding
conflicts before they escalate. This new sense of calm allows partners to grow closer
discussions with clarity and compassion, fostering constructive dialogue and mutual respect.
Additionally, breathing reveals layers of unconscious patterns and beliefs that can get in the way
relational harmony. As partners delve into breathing practices such as breath awareness and
guided visualization, uncover unresolved emotions and traumas, paving the way for healing
and reconciliation. Through gentle exploration and release, couples overcome past hurts,
forging a deeper bond rooted in authenticity and acceptance.
In the realm of couples therapy, breathing becomes a shared journey of self-discovery and
mutual development. Therapists guide partners through personalized breathing exercises designed to
address their unique needs and challenges, creating a safe container for exploration and
transformation. Together, couples cultivate awareness and presence, encouraging a deeper
relationship not only with each other but also with themselves.
As couples embrace the transformative potential of breath, they embark on a sacred quest
to co-create a relationship based on love, trust and resilience. With each conscious breath,
they honor the sanctity of their union, nurturing a bond that transcends trials and tribulations
of everyday life.
Gottman x breathwork
Incorporating Gottman’s research on physiological arousal and its calming effect
Breathing in couples therapy offers a profound opportunity for relational healing and growth.
Through synchronized breathing, stress reduction and emotional release, partners deepen
connection, fostering a relationship based on trust, understanding and unwavering support. As
they embark on this journey together, guided by the wisdom of their breathing and Gottman’s
ideas, couples reclaim the sanctity of their union, celebrating its transformative power
love in its purest form.
If you want to experience what breath work and couples therapy is like together, I invite you
you will join me May 5-10, 2024 on the beautiful island of Maui Just Breathe, A Couples
Therapy and Breathwork Retreat. We will engage in various exercises to help couples engage
vulnerability and create an environment in which security is present and felt by all. I promise this
it will be a transformative experience!