How Havening Activates Your Brain's Natural Calming System
Recent Insights from the Training Room
During our most recent Havening Techniques® training, a fascinating discussion emerged around one of the key neurobiological mechanisms that makes Havening so remarkably effective. As we explored the science behind the technique, participants were particularly intrigued by the connection between Havening touch and GABA activation in the brain.
This insight provided such a powerful "aha moment" for many practitioners that I felt compelled to share it more widely. Understanding this mechanism not only deepens our appreciation for Havening's effectiveness but also helps explain why clients experience such profound relaxation and emotional relief.
What is GABA and Why Does it Matter?
GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in our central nervous system—essentially acting as the brain's natural "calming agent." When GABA receptors are activated, they reduce neural excitability throughout the brain and spinal cord, creating a natural state of relaxation and emotional regulation.
This inhibitory function is crucial for:
Counterbalancing excitatory neurotransmitters that can contribute to anxiety and stress
Regulating nervous system activity to prevent overstimulation
Supporting healthy sleep cycles by calming brain activity
Moderating emotional responses to threatening stimuli
GABA's importance is well-recognised in conventional medicine, with numerous medications designed specifically to enhance its effects. Benzodiazepines, certain sleep aids, and some antidepressants work primarily by increasing GABA activity or binding to GABA receptors.
How Havening Activates GABA Systems Naturally
What makes Havening particularly remarkable is its ability to activate these same GABA systems through entirely natural means, without medication. The specific touch patterns used in Havening, gentle, sweeping motions across the arms, hands, and face, trigger a cascade of neurochemical responses, including:
Increased GABA production and receptor activity
Reduced cortisol levels (the primary stress hormone)
Generation of delta waves in the brain (associated with deep relaxation)
Release of oxytocin (the "bonding hormone" that promotes feelings of safety)
This multi-faceted neurochemical response explains why clients often report feeling deeply relaxed, emotionally "lighter," and more regulated after even a brief Havening session.
Bridging Science and Therapeutic Practice
What I find most valuable about this aspect of Havening is how it bridges rigorous neuroscience with accessible, practical application. When practitioners understand the "why" behind the "what," their confidence in the technique deepens, and they can explain its benefits to clients in ways that resonate with different learning styles and comfort levels with scientific concepts.
In my trainings, we don't just teach the techniques, we explore the science that makes them work, creating practitioners who can confidently integrate this knowledge into their existing practice frameworks.
Integrating This Knowledge Into Your Practice
If you're already trained in Havening Techniques®, consider how this deeper understanding of GABA activation might enhance your client communications and session planning. For those considering adding Havening to their therapeutic toolkit, this neurobiological foundation provides yet another compelling reason to explore this powerful modality.
In our increasingly stressed world, offering clients natural ways to activate their brain's own calming systems isn't just good practice, it's transformative care.
Learn More About Havening Training
If you're curious about how Havening's GABA activation might benefit your clients (or perhaps even your own wellbeing), I invite you to join one of my upcoming training sessions: https://www.houseofdelta.com.au/haveningtraining
Each training provides a comprehensive exploration of both the neuroscience foundations and practical applications of Havening Techniques®, in a supportive learning environment limited to small groups for personalised attention.