Somatic breathwork is a therapeutic method of full, conscious breathing that allows the body and mind to get more oxygen using the best of ancient and modern breathing practices. "Somatic" comes from the Greek sōmatikos, meaning "of the body". It is a sophisticated and therapeutic method of breathing that brings conscious awareness to the places where the body has contracted around painful emotions that have yet to be processed. Somatic breathwork affects us on two levels, similar to how meditation works. On a more surface level, intentional breathing relaxes the body and calms the nervous system. On a deeper level, breathing heals the layers of trauma stored in our bodies. Somatic breathwork employs circular connected breathing coupled with rhythmic music to produce a cathartic emotional release. Somatic breathwork is often done with another person, as there is a collective and communal healing that happens within the practice. Somatic breathing exercises are meant to be done with kindness and curiosity, and it is important that breathing is gentle, respectful, and done without strain.