Like you, I’ve found myself in situations where someone says, “Just take a deep breath." At times, this can feel irritating—most of us don’t appreciate being told what to do, especially when we’re overwhelmed or caught off guard. Yet, despite the initial annoyance, this simple suggestion remains a remarkably effective and always-accessible tool.

Years ago, someone reminded me: “We always have time for a breath”. Before responding or reacting, we can pause and take a breath. Initially, this can feel challenging—especially in emotionally charged moments. But with practice and commitment, it becomes a more natural part of how we engage with life. Eventually, it shapes how we show up for whatever shows up for us.

Breath as a Gateway to Non-Ordinary States

As a practitioner who invites breath to help others access non-ordinary states of consciousness, I am continuously amazed by its power. Over the years, I’ve participated in single and 30-day breathing commitments. These practices incorporate intention, move into potentially illuminating altered states of awareness, and can result in profound insights, often captured with an affirmation or reflection to anchor the experience.

These practices never cease to surprise me.

Every time I engage in breathwork—whether for my personal growth or while guiding clients— sometime unexpected appears. The breath leads us to places within ourselves we didn’t even know existed. What amazes me most is that no matter how often I return to this practice, there’s always more to discover. Breathwork is like an uncharted inner landscape, waiting for us to explore.

Breathing Without Constraints

During my latest 30-day breathing commitment, I experienced the practice in new ways, especially within different settings. This invited me to let go of preconceived notions and techniques about how breathing “should” be done. I also released rigid ideas about how the practice “should” unfold. Letting go of these constraints made the practice more accessible and readily embedded in my daily life.

This journey was a reminder: breath is always available. It’s not just a tool but a doorway into non-ordinary, altered states of awareness; into a shift that can feel like seeing the world through a new lens. In those moments, the familiar takes on new meaning, and clarity emerges effortlessly.

A Simple Invitation

The next time someone tells you, “Take a breath,” consider it more than just a suggestion. Take it to heart. Breathe deeply and allow that breath to expand—however it wants to show up in the moment. Sometimes, that one breath is enough to shift a lot or a little.

Curious to Explore?

On Saturday, November 9th, I’ll be offering ‘Breathsoundance’—a unique experience that invites breath and movement to bring clarity to unresolved situations. After we move with the breath, we’ll immerse ourselves in the resonant sounds of planetary gongs and pure crystal bowls ending with a period of silence, resting in deep listening, open to whatever insights arise.

Whether you’re looking to resolve inner conflict or simply curious about the transformative power of breath, this experience offers a beautiful opportunity to explore in community. Private one-on-one sessions are also available in person and via Zoom.

So, take a breath!