Bridging the Gap Between Sessions: The Power of Respa Mindfulness

On average, an adult takes about 20,000 to 25,000 breaths per day. Because breathing is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, we often pay little attention to it. However, the practice of intentional breathing, known as breathwork, has a history spanning thousands of years, rooted in spiritual healing for the mind and body. In recent times, breathwork has gained scientific validation, showing that it can calm the nervous system and enhance mental health.

Breathwork in Therapy: A Clinician’s Perspective

As a therapist, I have taught breathwork to clients dealing with various mental health issues, most notably anxiety disorders. Clients often find it interesting when I pause a session, dim the lights, and invite them to find a comfortable position. Initially hesitant, they are usually pleasantly surprised after a few guided rounds.

I leave them with “homework”: “Keep practicing your breathwork outside of our sessions.” I offer options, at home, during a midday lunch break, in bed before sleep, anywhere they feel they need it or can benefit from mindfulness.

The Challenge: Homework Outside of Sessions

I follow up with my clients in subsequent sessions. The “homework” doesn’t always have a high completion rate. Responses like “I forgot,” “I got busy,” or “It was chaotic at my house last night” are common. I understand. Something that seems easy to incorporate into a daily routine often takes a backseat when life becomes hectic.

However, the outlook isn’t all bleak. Many individuals have established routines with their breathwork and report reduced symptoms, decreased anxiety, and improved sleep. From a clinician’s perspective, the challenge lies in tracking when and how well my clients are practicing. I rely on self-reports, but a more accurate way to monitor progress would be ideal.

Enter Respa Mindfulness: A Tool for Therapists and Clients

I recently discovered Respa Mindfulness, a wearable, clip-on sensor designed to support more effective breathwork by providing real-time feedback. It helps users regulate and refine their breathing, making breath awareness more accessible and measurable.

For my clients, Respa could be a valuable tool to support follow-through with their at-home “homework,” while also giving me the ability to track their progress in real time, no guesswork required.

A Win-Win for Therapy and Mental Health

It’s a win-win: therapists gain meaningful data, and clients gain confidence in their ability to practice accurate, effective breathing outside of sessions. With a few Respa sessions under their belt, I wouldn’t be surprised if some clients end up breathing better than I do. At that point, I might just start taking their notes.