Breathwork for Inner Peace

Tap in to your "free"dom

Five years ago, in the pit of Covid and a severe moment of “freeze” response, I pretty much stumbled across breathwork out of nowhere! You know when we all feel freaked out that our devices are ‘listening’ to us- this truly was the case as “I feel like I can’t breathe” translated to reels and posts about Breathwork, littering my Instagram feed. I had lived in fight/flight mode for the majority of my adult life and had used the inner narrative that I just needed to combat work stress/mental load/emotional energy with hobbies that would “take my mind off of it.” 350 trillion hobbies later… (I do love to try new things!) and I was feeling more stressed than ever- now I had a whole schedule to adhere to as I may not achieve my cardio/weights/flexibility/endurance etc goals, should I let a session slide. Nothing had taken my mind off of that ‘on edge’ feeling that peppered my life.

Whilst I was busy learning French /sign language/ floristry/ photography/ crocheting/ sourdough baking/Montessori at home, and ALL of the free classes I had found, during this time period, I thought “ok, I’ll try this breathwork- sounds weird though!” and soon settled down for a 20 minute live session, that was being presented through social media. Admittedly, I did take a while for me to get to grips with what was going on- and to stop thinking about cleaning my skirting boards- but once I was “in”, I found myself undergoing quite the journey. I found a place of peace; a space that I had no idea existed, within my physiology. Pretty soon, I became addicted- I signed up to any free sessions available and loved to listen and partake, during my daily walks; particularly at my happy place: Hatfield Forest. Breathing in nature felt extra special and I cannot believe that I have now come full circle and facilitate breathwork for others, in this magical space!

As well as breathwork being free (should you practice alone!) it has so many other amazing benefits:

Physical Benefits:

• Reduces stress and lowers blood pressure: Deep, conscious breathing helps calm the nervous system and reduces the body's stress response.

• Improves oxygen delivery: Breathwork increases oxygen flow throughout the body, enhancing energy and cellular health.

• Enhances lung capacity: Regular practice strengthens respiratory muscles and improves overall lung function.

• Boosts immune function: Controlled breathing techniques stimulate the body's relaxation response, supporting immunity.

• Relieves tension: Focused breathing can release physical tension and ease muscle tightness.

  
  

  Mental Benefits:

• Reduces anxiety and depression: Breathwork helps regulate emotions and calm an overactive mind. Improves focus and clarity: By increasing oxygen to the brain, breathwork enhances mental sharpness and concentration.

• Promotes mindfulness: Breathing exercises bring you into the present moment, helping you stay grounded.

• Encourages emotional release: Breathwork can facilitate the processing and release of pent-up emotions or past trauma.

• Connects mind and body: Breathwork fosters a sense of unity and balance between your physical and emotional selves.

• Encourages self-awareness: Deep breathing often creates space for introspection and self-discovery.

• Supports personal growth: Many breathwork techniques can open pathways to deeper understanding and transformation.

  
  
  
  

  To find out more, follow my socials:

  TikTok + Facebook: Breathe With Billie

  Instagram: @each.mindful.day