Breath is something we often take for granted – when was the last time you truly paid attention to your breathing?
How you breathe can have a big impact on your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. In fact, it’s now being recognised that breathwork is one of the most powerful, natural tools we have to calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and support healing. That’s why it’s a big part of the holistic care we offer here at The Bardo.
Whether you’re just starting detox or in rehab, conscious breathwork can help regulate your emotions, ease anxiety, and reconnect you to your body in a way that feels grounded and empowering.
What is breathwork?
Breathwork is the practice of intentionally controlling the way you breathe to influence your mental, emotional, and physical state. It can include a variety of techniques, from slow, rhythmic breathing to deeper, more energised breathing, all designed to create specific effects in the body.
Some popular methods include:
- Box breathing (inhale-hold-exhale-hold)
- Diaphragmatic (belly) breathing
- 4-7-8 breathing for stress relief
- Holotropic or transformational breathwork for deeper emotional release
At The Bardo, we offer gentle, guided breathwork practices that are safe and supportive during the vulnerable stages of detox and recovery.
What are the benefits of breathwork?
Breathwork is evidence-based and can support your health during detox and rehabilitation. Breathing techniques can:
Calm the nervous system
Controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you shift from “fight or flight” into “rest and digest.” This is especially helpful if you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed or physically uncomfortable during detox.
Support emotional regulation
Recovery often stirs up strong emotions. Breathwork provides a simple, effective way to stay present and manage feelings without needing to numb or suppress them.
Improves sleep and reduces insomnia
Many of our guests struggle with sleep in early recovery. Breathwork techniques can help quiet the mind, reduce cortisol, and create the conditions for better rest.
Increase self-awareness and mindfulness
Focusing on the breath naturally brings your attention inward. Over time, this builds emotional awareness and a deeper connection to your body—key elements of sustainable recovery.
Eases physical symptoms of withdrawal
While breathwork isn’t a cure-all, it can reduce tension, manage cravings and relieve some of the physical discomfort that comes with detoxing.
What we do at The Bardo
At The Bardo, we integrate breathwork into our daily therapy schedule at our retreat – it all makes up our holistic approach to healing. We’ll gently guide you through breathing exercises that complement your recovery plan.
Our trained wellness practitioners may incorporate breathwork into:
- Counselling sessions
- Yoga and bodywork therapy
- Mindfulness and meditation practices
- Art and expressive therapy sessions
- Even pre-sleep rituals to support better rest
We’ll design a treatment plan especially for you, so you’ll get what you need from each breathworks session
How can breathwork help your recovery?
Recovery isn’t just about removing harmful substances, it’s about your relationship with yourself. It’s such a powerful tool to help you do that. At The Bardo, we’re not into quick fixes, we’re only invested in real, sustainable change. That’s why our holistic recovery model includes physical, emotional, and spiritual therapies like breathwork that support you as a whole person.
Ready to detox and start your recovery journey?
If you’re considering a detox retreat or need recovery support and want to explore an approach that includes more than just medications, we’re here for you.
Take a deep breath and take the first step. Call us today at 0411 071 146.
