Breathwork
Before the Ketamine Session: Grounding Breathwork
Introduction:
Before we begin your ketamine session, we'll start with a grounding breathwork exercise to help you connect with your body and create a sense of calm and presence. This will prepare you for the experience and help you stay anchored during the session.
Instructions
Find a comfortable seated or lying position.
Close your eyes if that feels comfortable for you.
Take a deep breath in through your nose, counting to four as you inhale.
Hold your breath for a moment at the top.
Slowly exhale through your mouth, counting to six as you release the breath.
Feel the sensation of your breath as it enters and leaves your body.
Continue this pattern, inhaling for four counts, holding for a moment, and exhaling for six counts.
As you breathe, bring your awareness to the present moment. Notice any tension or sensations in your body without judgment.
Imagine each breath grounding you, like tree roots extending deep into the earth.
With each exhale, release any stress or worries, allowing them to flow out of your body.
(Continue to guide client through series of breathing in for 4 count and out for 6.)
Closing:
As you continue to breathe in for a count of four and out for six, this breathwork can help keep you connected to your body and in the present moment. Increasing this ability will maintain a sense of grounding and safety during your ketamine session.
When you're ready, we'll move to the next step.
Ketamine Intake: Anchor Breath with Swish
Introduction:
As you are holding the medicine in your mouth, we'll use a simple anchor breath to help you remain connected to this space and maintain a sense of peace as you swish the medicine. This breath will act as a gentle guide throughout the session.
Instructions
With the ketamine in your mouth, take a slow, gentle breath in through your nose.
Hold the breath for a few seconds, allowing yourself to feel the air entering and expanding your lungs.
As you exhale, release the breath slowly through your nose.
With each breath cycle, visualize the sensations of the ketamine as it interacts with your body.
Notice the ebb and flow of any thoughts or emotions, observing them without attachment.
Keep your focus on your breath as it carries you through this time.
You are doing a great job. Breathe in gently and slowly through your nose. Hold. And gently exhale through your nose.
Swish the medication.
You have X time left before you spit.
If you begin to feel overwhelmed, return to the anchor breath to center yourself.
Closing:
Remember that this anchor breath is here to support you throughout your ketamine session. It can help you maintain a connection to your body and provide a sense of security as you explore this therapeutic journey.
As the timer sounds you may now spit out the medication.
Now it is time to secure your mask and headphones, lie back in a comfortable position…and trust, let go, and be open, knowing you are safe and are being held in a space for healing.
Have a nice journey.
