Frequently Asked Questions
What is Breath Work?
Breath Work is a practice of consciously changing the way one breathes to shift their physical, emotional, and energetic state. The particular practice I use is the two-stage pranayama yoga (taught by David Elliott). This breath invites deeper awareness of energy moving within and beyond the body and opens the heart.
What does Breath Work feel like?
There is no one way a Breath Work session is supposed to feel. You may experience physical sensations, emotions, memories, images, thoughts, stillness, or a deeper awareness of yourself. Some sessions may feel expansive or even psychedelic, while others may be much quieter. The practice is an invitation to meet whatever is showing up.
Toward the beginning of the practice, dizziness is very common. Throughout the session, changes in body temperature, hand cramping, and lip cramping are also very common. These physical sensations evolve and subside as the session continues.
Do I need any experience to sign up for a session?
No. You don't need any previous experience with Breath Work, meditation, yoga, or other spiritual practices.
Can I cry, make noise, or move during a session?
Yes. The body can express itself in many different ways during Breath Work. You may cry, sigh, laugh, yell, talk, make sounds, sing, move, or experience involuntary physical movements. I may offer suggestions or encouragement, but you are always welcome to follow what feels right for you, including simply lying still and breathing.
What if I don't have a big emotional release?
Some people experience strong emotional or physical releases, while others spend time simply witnessing thoughts, feelings, or resistance. In session, I invite you to open to what is present for you, no matter what it is.
Is Breath Work like meditation or yoga?
The type of Breath Work that I practice is different from breathing techniques that might be taught in a yoga class -- it tends to be more activating than calming (though clients usually report feeling refreshed and light after sessions). The invitation is to shift your mind’s focus onto the breath pattern, which can be difficult at first.
What happens during a one-on-one session? / What does the facilitator do while the client is breathing?
During a one-on-one session, the client and I spend some time talking at the beginning of the session. Then I demonstrate the breathing pattern. The client then breathes for about 40-45 minutes while I play music (usually about 30-35 minutes of the two-stage pranayama yoga breath and then 10 minutes of resting breath). At the end of the session, I ground the client and allow time for the client to share any closing thoughts.
While the client is breathing, I may apply oils, burn Plants, or spray mists to help encourage energy to move throughout the session. If a client falls out of the pattern, I guide them back to it. I occasionally offer the client affirmations, which they are welcome to repeat to themself if they find it helpful.
How does an online session work?
An online session is the same as an in-person sessions, except that I am not able to physically apply oils to a client’s body. I still use the support and energy of the healing tools including oils, Plants, and sprays during online sessions. Online sessions can be just as powerful as in-person sessions and can be especially good options for long-distance clients, clients who only have 60 minutes available, or clients who feel most comfortable in their own space.
What do I need to bring to a session?
For in-person sessions: nothing! Some people like to wear comfortable, loose clothing or an elastic waistband so the breath can move freely into the belly.
For online sessions, please set yourself up somewhere you can be comfortable and uninterrupted for the duration of the journey. You may make some noise during the practice, so choose a space where you won’t disturb others (and they won’t disturb you). You’ll want to be able to lie completely flat on your back — on a yoga mat, couch, or bed. I recommend keeping your head and knees flat rather than propped up. Have a blanket nearby, as changes in body temperature are common during this kind of Breath Work. During the session, I may cue you to use sounds such as yells, sighs, or groans to help move energy through the body. If this feels supportive for you, you may want to have a pillow or towel nearby to yell into. An eye mask or covering for your eyes is optional, but recommended. It can help you turn your attention inward and settle more deeply into the experience.
Are there any reasons I shouldn't practice Breath Work?
If you have a medical concern, please check with your doctor ahead of the session. If you are otherwise unsure whether this practice is appropriate for you, please reach out to me.
I have experience holding space for clients with significant trauma, including combat veterans, 9/11 first responders, and individuals who have experienced sexual trauma. I invite anyone who feels called to this work to bring the fullness of themselves and their experiences to their session.
What should I do after a session?
There are no rules. You could go for a walk, journal, drink some water, do some work, make some art, go out to dinner, go dancing! Whatever you want. Once you finish the session, the work is complete!