There aren’t many things that can go wrong in a SOMA workshop, but it is best to make sure you are prepared just in case.

During the introduction to your class, it is a good idea to mention some things that may happen so people aren’t worried if they experience it. Some that have happened before include: 

• Negative emotions arising and being released in the form of crying or screaming
• Tetany (cramping of the hands and feet)
• Becoming lightheaded, dizzy, or even fainting
• Orgasmic energy being released

Here are our recommendations on how to deal with these events:

Negative Emotions Arising

Hold space for the participant by coming closer to them and letting them know that everything is okay and you are there to help. It is important to not to interfere too much in their experience but for them to know your are there in case.

Encourage them to release whatever it is that is coming out. You can do this by either saying it for everyone to hear during the breathwork (without singling anyone out), or go to the individual if you can and whisper to them, letting them know they are not alone and you are there to support them.

Tetany (cramping of the hands and feet)

Let people know before the session that this is very common and if it happens they can slow down their breathing slightly or massage themselves in the area where it is painful.

If it is unbearable pain they can raise their hand so you or a helper can go over and help massage the tension out of the body part that is cramping.

Becoming lightheaded, dizzy, or even fainting

Let people know that this is very common and that they can do the meditation sitting or laying down but if they start feeling lightheaded would be best to lay down for the remainder of the session.

Release of orgasmic energy

On some occasions, participants have had full on orgasms during a session as the sexual energy builds up. Let participants know this can happen and to not be ashamed if it does.

This is quite an important one to mention in the introduction. It may be very uncomfortable for someone if they or their neighbour experiences orgasm and they were not aware that this is possible.