Unlike traditional breathwork practices, Somatic breathwork is uniquely designed to work with your body’s nervous system, not against it, ensuring a safe, effective, and a scientifically-backed pathway to transformation. This practice isn’t just about relaxation—it’s about unlocking the full potential of your nervous system for lasting emotional and physiological balance. Each session invites mindful pacing—honoring personal comfort, slowing down when needed, and staying attuned to what feels right in the moment.

Because this breathwork journey can take you into deep states of release, it’s best to lie down throughout the practice. The intensity of strong, deep breathing may sometimes bring on lightheadedness, so lying down helps keep the body safe and supported.

Somatic Breathwork Disclaimer

Somatic Breathwork is a personal growth practice and is not a replacement for psychotherapy or medical treatment. This work is not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or those with cardiovascular conditions (including angina or heart attack), high blood pressure, glaucoma, retinal detachment, osteoporosis, a history of seizures, stroke, major psychiatric conditions, recent surgery, acute infectious illness, or epilepsy.

Anyone uncertain about their ability to participate should consult their physician before beginning. Individuals with asthma are advised to bring their inhaler and speak with their healthcare provider prior to the session.

We value your commitment to the journey of breathwork and the energy you bring to our group sessions. To ensure a smooth and respectful experience for everyone, please note the following policy:

All sign-ups for the group session must be completed at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled session time. If you need to cancel your booking, please do so no later than 24 hours before the session. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior will not be eligible for a refund or credit toward a future session.

If a session is canceled by us due to low attendance or unforeseen circumstances, participants will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer to a future session.

This policy helps us honor the time and energy of all participants and facilitators.

Somatic Breathwork Participant Agreement

Acknowledgment of Process

Somatic Breathwork is a deep and transformative practice involving rapid and sustained breathing techniques designed to activate profound emotional and physiological responses. This process may bring forward intense sensations or emotions — including but not limited to tingling, temperature changes, emotional release, and altered states of consciousness — as part of the body's natural release and integration process.

Voluntary Participation & Personal Responsibility

By participating, it is acknowledged that the practitioner has been informed of any existing physical injuries, mental health conditions, or psychological concerns. Participation in this session is undertaken voluntarily, with full personal responsibility for all physical, mental, and emotional experiences that may arise during or after the session.

Not a Substitute for Professional Care

Somatic Breathwork is not a substitute for professional medical care, psychotherapy, or crisis intervention. Dessa McFadin, Susan van der Ham and Arms Around Us are not licensed therapists or medical providers in the context of this offering.

Age Requirement

Participants must be 18 years of age or older to attend.

Recording Policy

This session may not be recorded by participants without prior written consent from the facilitator.

Confidentiality

I agree to maintain the confidentiality of all other participants and what is shared within the session.

Technology Disclaimer

I understand this session is conducted virtually and acknowledge that technical difficulties may arise. Arms Around Us is not responsible for interruptions caused by internet connectivity or platform issues.

Attestation of Good Health

I confirm that I have read and fully understand the information provided above. I attest that my general health is sufficient to safely participate in Somatic Breathwork and that I am engaging in this practice of my own free will.