Frequently asked questions- get in touch if there’s something I missed!
Where are you located?
I teach both virtually via Zoom, and locally in NYC at your home or location.
Do you offer discounts?
I offer a few sessions sliding scale per month- these are virtual and are typically 50 minutes in length. Additionally I host various free virtual group sessions each month- check out my offerings page to see what’s coming up!
What is breathwork?
Breathwork is the conscious controlled use of different breathing patterns, exercises, and techniques in order to achieve a specific outcome. It can be used to alter or enhance both emotional and physical states within the body.
What is breathwork used for?
Different styles of breathwork are used to achieve different outcomes, some of which include:
Stress and anxiety reduction
Increased productivity
Increased focus and awareness
Energy and attention management
Pain management
Emotional release
Release of stored trauma
Better sleep
Enhanced connection to creativity, inspiration
Connection with self and the Universe
What style of breathwork will we practice?
The style of breathwork used will vary depending on the desired outcome and your current mental and physical state (ie if there are any contraindications or injury). Styles used draw from both traditional practices such as pranayama, and more modern practices such as Conscious Connected Breath. We will assess which styles are best for your needs. Depending on the style, breathing may be done through the nose, mouth, or both.
What do I need for our session?
It's important to create a safe, quiet, and comfortable space in which you will have minimal disruption. Breathing may be done sitting or lying down. (For longer sessions I recommend lying down). Pillows and blankets can be used during the session to provide extra comfort. I also recommend having tissues available and a glass of water for after the session.
Please refrain from eating for 1-2 hours before the session as certain styles of breath can disrupt digestion. Wear clothing that you're comfortable in and that isn't too restrictive.
For virtual: headphones may be used to enhance the experience
What can I expect during a session?
Sessions vary- here is a typical format for a private session:
Check in to review your goals for the practice, and if you are experiencing any of the contraindications. This will determine what style of breathing we will be practicing.
Review breath practices we will be using
Get comfortable and set up for the breath. We will do some grounding practices which may include body scans, meditation, etc.
Guided breathing practice. I will remain with you through the entire session to provide any support needed, including any modifications.
Integration- at the end of each practice it's important to ground yourself once more and take time to integrate your experience.
I offer supportive touch during in-person sessions but will always ask for consent.
How will I feel during/after?
Breathwork is a powerful practice which can cause changes to your blood chemistry- especially in deeper practices. As such it can cause physical sensations such as changes to heart rate, body temperature, and muscle cramping (often in the hands and feet- this is called tetany). Although these are generally harmless and will dissipate once practice is complete, we can alter the breath during the practice if anything is too intense or uncomfortable.
Breathwork can also lead to shifts in emotional state and heightened feelings. Certain styles of breathing such as Conscious Connected Breath often release trauma and held emotion. When practicing these styles of breath you may have the urge to cry, shout, shake, punch a pillow, or release energy in another physical way. While this may feel new or scary the first time please know it's totally normal- your body is releasing what it needs to let go of! These feelings are often very intense especially if you are new to the practice.
Sessions will always end with time for grounding and coming back into your space. In the hours and days after a session it's not uncommon to feel heightened awareness, connectivity, or emotional sensitivity.
How many sessions are needed?
Number of sessions varies depending on what your goals are. A single session can be used as an intro and to assess a plan for moving forward.
Are there any contraindications or medical conditions I shouldn’t practice with?
Speak with your doctor before practicing breathwork if you have any of the following:
Cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
Glaucoma
Retinal detachment
Aneurysms
Recent surgery (medical clearance required within 8 weeks post-op)
Early stage or delicate pregnancy
Seizures
Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
There are breathing modifications which can be used for some of these contraindications, but it's important to check with a medical professional as well as to inform me of any relevant medical history before your session.
Breathwork can also bring emotions to the surface as they are released, this can be a very powerful and sometimes scary experience especially with the use of certain types of breath. I am there to help guide you through these experiences and shift the breath if at any point they are too overwhelming or you're feeling unwell.
What is your cancellation policy?
Sessions are non-refundable once purchased. Sessions expire 6 months after purchase date.
Cancellation & rescheduling allowed before 24 hours. Within 24 hours, rescheduling subject to availability. For multiple cancellations, session fee may be forfeited.