Parasthesia, tetanus and tremors, oh my!
The challenge is complicated by the fact that bioenergetic breathing tends to cause three harmless but potentially alarming side-effects: parasthesia, tetanus, and tremors. Sounds dramatic, doesn’t it? Well, it is kind of exciting. This is powerful stuff. But these experiences really are harmless, and they tend to go away with practice. I myself went through them and came out the other side many years ago. Parasthesia simply means “altered sensation,” usually in the form of tingling that starts around the mouth, at the fingertips and in the toes. As it advances and spreads, it is usually accompanied by tetanus — sustained but mild contraction of muscles. The hands and feet tend to “claw up,” and your lips will feel like you’ve just been to the dentist! This is different than spasm, and it is more stiff than painful. It wears off quickly. Finally, tremors may sweep through the body erratically, perhaps favouring a specific limb or side, but this too passes rapidly — and should actually be indulged when it occurs. Let yourself shake. Be free! Martial arts and yoga practitioners may study their entire lives without knowing the sensation of qi.
These symptoms are produced by an altered mind-body state, both physiological and psychological. The tetanus is a consequence of some changes in blood chemistry. The tingling is the sensation of qi — when your hands are tingling fiercely with qi, it feels like you are holding balls of fire. It’s a very distinctive sensation, and a privilege to experience. I often explain to people that martial arts and yoga practitioners may study for their entire lives without knowing the sensation of qi, simply because they don’t breathe enough. The tendency to tremor is a “letting go.” We are all hanging on tightly to so very much, including out own bodies. The breathing shakes us loose. I advise you not to try to stop it. I must emphasize again that all of these side-effects are temporary. Bioenergetic breathing is not hyperventilation. It is not dangerous in any way. Any sensation you experience during breathing will go away as you slow down and stop.