My Story

I began a dedicated breathwork practice in January 2026 after reading about its power to regulate the nervous system. What drew me to it was learning that breathwork is distinct from meditation. It does not require clearing your mind or following a guided visualization. It simply asks you to breathe, deliberately and with intention.

There are many breathwork techniques, each producing a different result. Some are energizing, some deeply calming, some are designed to increase breath hold capacity. I came to the practice through the Open app, which I found after a 30-day trial convinced me I would genuinely miss it if I stopped. I am allergic to subscriptions, and this one earned its place.

Each morning the app offers a selection of meditation, breathwork, sound, and movement practices. I work through the breathing exercises and meditation as well. What I have noticed most is the contrast between my first breath of the day — tight, shallow, unable to fully expand — and my breath ten minutes later, deep and free. By the end of a session I can hold my breath significantly longer, my body is calmer, and my mind is clearer. It is a quiet but measurable transformation that happens every single morning before the day begins.

Supplies

1. Phone. I have found using a breathwork app for guidance to be very helpful.

2. A place to comfortably lie down such as a bed, sofa, or yoga mat or a place to comfortably sit up such as a chair or sofa.