What to Do If Tetany Lingers After Breathwork
If you’ve ever had that cramping, claw-like sensation in your hands during a Revelation Breathwork class (what we call tetany), you know it can be powerful. Most of the time it softens once we drop into savasana and rest. But sometimes it hangs around a little longer.
That can feel unsettling. And that’s okay. Nothing’s “wrong” with you. Your body is just speaking loudly, and there are some simple things you can do to support yourself - both emotionally and physically - so you can integrate the experience more fully.
Start with the Emotional Side
Whenever tetany lingers, I invite you to see it not just as a muscle cramp, but as your body holding on to something deeper. This is where journaling can be a powerful tool.
Here are a few prompts you can try:
What was I feeling or thinking right before and during the tetany?
If my hands (or the area that clenched) could speak, what would they say?
What might this tightness be trying to protect me from?
What shifts in me as I write about it now?
What support or expression is my body asking for?
Writing is one of the best ways to let your body keep speaking after the session is over.
You can also ground yourself by doing something simple: put your feet on the earth, step outside and breathe some fresh air, or take a few slow, belly breaths. This reassures your nervous system that you’re safe.
Then Care for the Body
Once you’ve given your emotions space, bring attention to your body:
Move gently: Shake out your arms, stretch your fingers, open and close your fists, or circle your wrists. Rubbing your hands or putting them in warm water can really help.
Hydrate well: Drink water to support your muscles and nervous system.
Add minerals: Magnesium is especially supportive (leafy greens, nuts, seeds, or a supplement). Potassium and sodium also help (avocados, bananas, mineral-rich sea salt).
If you notice tetany shows up often, adding magnesium or a good electrolyte mix to your daily routine can make a big difference.
Closing Thought
If tetany lingers, don’t worry. It’s simply your body doing deep work. With a little journaling, some grounding, movement, water, and minerals, you can turn what feels intense into a beautiful moment of integration.
Your breath is opening doors, and your body is showing you the way through.
