Breathwork offers widely recognized calming and stress-relieving benefits, but is it effective for clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), particularly in the context of nutrition therapy? Many individuals with autism experience sensory sensitivities and emotional regulation challenges, which can make traditional therapeutic techniques, like breathwork, overwhelming unless they are adapted appropriately.
Breathwork involves various controlled breathing exercises aimed at regulating the breath to influence both physical and emotional states1. Common techniques, such as deep breathing, ujjayi breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and alternate nostril breathing, help activate the parasympathetic nervous system to reduce stress and anxiety1. In the context of nutrition therapy, it can support stress reduction, emotional regulation, and improved digestion1, helping to cultivate a more balanced and mindful relationship with food.
However, for individuals with autism, breathwork may present certain challenges. Sensory hypersensitivity can make the physical sensation of deep breathing uncomfortable, and certain breathing patterns may feel overwhelming or intrusive. Additionally, emotional regulation difficulties may make it hard for some individuals to focus on or engage with these techniques without extra support.
With gradual, personalized adaptation, breathwork can still become an effective tool for anxiety reduction, relaxation, and sensory regulation in individuals with ASD2. It is essential to tailor the approach to each client’s sensory thresholds and emotional needs.
While there’s no universal evidence that breathwork works for all individuals with autism, when dietitians thoughtfully incorporate and customize it to each client’s unique needs, it can support emotional well-being and enhance the therapeutic process. To make breathwork more accessible and effective in nutrition therapy, dietitians should approach it in a personalized, client-centered way.
Making Breathwork Accessible
- Start Small and Build Gradually: Begin with simple exercises like a few deep breaths and build complexity gradually.
- Incorporate Visual/Tactile Aids: Use props like breathing balls or stress balls to make the process more engaging3.
- Tie Breathwork to Existing Routines: Pair breathwork with a calming routine like listening to music or using a weighted blanket to ease the transition.
- Focus on Sensory Regulation, Not Perfection: The goal isn’t perfect control but to reduce sensory overload and enhance self-soothing.
- Provide Choices: Offer the client a sense of control by allowing them to choose breathing techniques or adjust the session length.
- Adjust as Needed: Monitor their response and adapt the technique if necessary, ensuring the process feels supportive and not forced.
Benefits of Breathwork in Nutrition Therapy2
When used thoughtfully, breathwork can:
- Reduce Anxiety: Many clients on the autism spectrum experience anxiety, especially during meals. Breathwork can act as a grounding technique.
- Support Sensory Processing: Breathwork is non-invasive and can help manage sensory overload when clients are feeling overstimulated.
- Promote Emotional Regulation: In nutrition therapy sessions, emotional regulation is key—breathwork helps create a calming environment to address food-related anxieties or aversions.
In Summary
Breathwork can be a valuable tool in nutrition therapy for clients on the autism spectrum, offering support for anxiety and emotional regulation; however, determining its appropriateness ultimately depends on the individual client. By adapting breathwork to each client’s needs and sensory preferences, clinicians can create a supportive environment that enhances the effectiveness of nutrition therapy. It’s important to view breathwork as a complementary, flexible tool that fosters a calming and grounding experience, rather than a rigid technique.
At Laura Cipullo Whole Nutrition, our dietitians integrate mindfulness practices—including breathwork—into nutrition sessions to support our clients’ emotional well-being. We recognize the unique needs of each individual and take a holistic approach to treatment, helping clients on the autism spectrum manage food-related anxieties, sensory sensitivities, and emotional regulation through personalized, client-centered care.
References
- Breathwork for Beginners: What to Know and How to Get Started. Cleveland Clinic. Published May 19, 2023. Accessed January 10, 2025. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breathwork
- Behavior TLC. Calming Strategies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: How to Reduce Anxiety and Promote Relaxation. Behavior TLC. Published November 21, 2022. Accessed January 10, 2025. https://behaviortlc.com/blog/calming-strategies-for-asd/
- National Autism Resources. Autism Anger Management: How to Visually Teach Deep Breathing. National Autism Resources. Published February 26, 2019. Accessed January 10, 2025. https://nationalautismresources.com/blog/autism-anger-management-how-to-visually-teach-deep-breathing/?srsltid=AfmBOoq3oA1hF907FehUDK2Ng1BDgDCgZLbRm3KYeb40MblTYXkSET6Q
