We can simplify the functioning of the nervous system into two main modes:

1. Protective Mode (seeking safety)
When there is no sense of security:
• the body tightens
• breathing becomes restricted
• attention is directed toward threat

Energy is used for:
• protection
• control
• survival

2. Connection Mode
When a sense of safety appears:
• the body relaxes
• breathing deepens
• a desire for contact arises

Energy is now free for:
• communication
• emotional exchange
• closeness

Where the Process “Breaks”

A large part of psychological difficulties arise именно here:
• a person remains stuck in protective mode
• they cannot shift into relaxation and connection
• or they have difficulty with:
- recognizing emotions
- containing them
- expressing them

This leads to:
• distance in relationships
• a feeling of loneliness
• inner tension

The Role of the Diaphragm in This Process

The diaphragm is a central structure in this regulation. It responds directly to the state of the nervous system.

When we are in protective mode:
• the diaphragm tightens
• breathing becomes shallow
• the chest and abdomen become restricted

This leads to:
• limited access to emotions
• difficulty in expression
• reduced ability to connect

When there is safety:
• the diaphragm relaxes
• breathing becomes deep and rhythmic
• the body begins to “pulse” freely

This creates the conditions for:
• emotional regulation
• expression
• contact with others

Breathing as a Bridge Between the Two Modes

Breathing is one of the few mechanisms through which we can consciously influence the nervous system.

When breathing is restricted:
• the body remains in protection
• energy is “locked”
• connection becomes difficult

When breathing expands (abdomen + chest):
• the diaphragm releases
• the nervous system receives a signal of safety
• the connection mode is activated

This is not just physiology. This is the foundation of human relationships.

Energy in the Body and Needs

Energy in the body is not chaotic—it has direction.

First, it is used for:
• creating safety

Then, if there is enough security:
• it is released for connection
• for expression
• for contact

If this process is blocked:
• energy remains held back
• tension increases
• the person closes off

What Body Psychotherapy Does

Body-oriented therapy works precisely at this level.

Through working with breathing and the diaphragm, it:
• helps the body exit chronic protection
• restores the natural rhythm of breathing
• creates a sense of inner safety

From there, the most important shifts begin to happen gradually:
• a person begins to relax
• begins to feel
• begins to express
• begins to connect

Connection Begins in the Body

We do not connect with others only through words.
We connect through:
• tone of voice
• breathing
• facial expression
• micro-movements of the body

When the diaphragm is blocked:
• these signals are limited
• connection becomes superficial or tense

When breathing is freed:
• the body begins to “speak”
• others can feel us
• we can feel them

Human beings are designed to be part of connection. But connection does not begin outside—it begins within.

From the breath.
From the diaphragm.
From the sense of safety in the body.

When this is restored, connecting with others stops being an effort, and becomes a natural process.