The body, mind, and breath are inseparable. Unconscious emotional resistance is often reflected somewhere in the body as physical tension. This could appear as chronic headaches, muscle pain, or digestive issues. Fear and anxiety states often accompany shallow, hyperventilated breathing that alters autonomic nervous system regulation.[1] This is not a body-mind state that is ready to face life's challenges with ease and grace.

​

Through extended bodywork sessions, we give ourselves the time and space to be present and observe tensions that may get in the way of our inner work. This is a practice in surrender. First we uncover resistance and then we practice letting go. Clients are often surprised how much tension they hold and how they automatically guard against gentle movement or pressure. In order to explore challenging emotional content, we need a nervous system that is not constantly resisting. Through attentive touch, calming the breath, and developing a sense of safety, we can practice softening instead of bracing.

​

Psychedelics loosen our ordinary defense mechanisms, which is why it is so common for difficult material to emerge. How we respond to that content determines whether we have an insightful, healing journey or are left in a state of distress. "Bad trips" (although we hate that term) are often intensified by resistance to what is trying to emerge. It is an intensely negative reaction caused by trying to fight the experience, maintain control, and suppress emotions.[2] By learning to let go of control, approach (rather than avoid) challenging content, and accept what appears, we are gaining the gift of psychological resilience. This is a powerful skill in navigating the psychedelic journey (or any challenging experience for that matter) with greater ease and better outcomes.