What is breathwork?

Breathwork is any technique where a person intentionally manipulates their breath.

There are many techniques and styles that serve different purposes. Changing your breathing is the fastest way to take conscious control over your internal experience. 

What is active breathwork?

In my classes and private sessions, we practice active breathwork, also known as transformational breathwork.

Active breathwork is a rhythmic three-part breath through the mouth. Think of it as an active form of meditation. This self-driven style of breathing temporarily shifts your state— both your physical experience as well as your state of consciousness.

This practice is closely related to holotropic breathwork, but active breathwork sessions are structured differently and tend to be shorter in length.

What are the benefits of active breathwork?

There are many benefits to practicing this style of breathwork. It is particularly helpful for processing stuck energy or emotions, bringing mental clarity, and soothing the nervous system.

Breathwork builds interoception or body awareness. Research shows that increased interoception leads to a healthier physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual life.

Benefits may also include:

• Clearer thinking

• Building resilience to discomfort

• Spiritual inquiry and connection

• Reduced cortisol levels and relief from stress

• Improved sleep

• Relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety

• Cultivating understanding and compassion

• Improved immune response

• Improved lung capacity

• Improved athletic performance and muscular endurance

• Releasing past trauma

What can I expect from class?

Class is typically an hour long.

The structure:

• Introduction & setting intentions 

• Grounding practice

• Active breathwork

• Rest & integrate

It is normal to have physical, mental, and emotional experiences during the session. This practice moves a lot of energy through the body. After class, most people feel dreamy, calm, and deeply at peace. Expect to sleep very well following a session. The psychological benefits of the breathwork may continue to unfold for several days.

Music is designed to keep pace and enhance your experience. Expect medium-loud volume.

What should I bring/wear?

Wear comfortable/cozy clothing that isn’t too restrictive, especially in the chest and torso. Some people experience temperature fluctuations during breathwork, so layering can be helpful.

Please bring a water bottle. Recommended but optional items are lip balm, an eye mask, and a journal & pen for reflection after the session. If you are sensitive to loud noise, you may want to bring ear plugs for a group class.

For virtual sessions, you will need a comfortable, private spot to lie down, and a blanket.

How do I prepare for a session?

Avoid eating a large meal in the 60-90 minutes before breathwork. The breathing is more comfortable when your stomach is not overly full. Ingesting alcohol or cannabis beforehand is not recommended. 

I recommend coming to breathwork with an open mind. It may be helpful before class to reflect on intentions or any areas of your life where you feel stuck, but it is not necessary.

Who is active breathwork for?

Active breathwork is safe for healthy individuals. No experience is necessary. All bodies are welcome.

Active breathwork is not suitable for people who are pregnant, have respiratory conditions such as asthma, experience epilepsy or seizures, or have high blood pressure. If you have any concerns, please consult a healthcare practitioner prior to participating.