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Drawing on whatever is happening for us in the moment. In this breathwork circle we’ll have time for learning, sharing, self-reflecting, and most of all BREATHING

Take a break from the weekend shopping and chores and join Sharyn with a Why from Breathing Space for a Conscious Breathwork Session in central York on the first Saturday of the month at 10.30am (2 hours)

In these monthly sessions, we spend time with the fundamental elements of nature – Fire, Earth, Air and Water – exploring what they mean to us, how they can support us and how we can support nature in exchange.

Bring a yoga mat or a blanket (or both), a notebook and pen, and some water. Gift yourself 2 hours dedicated totally to YOU

Venue

Quaker Meeting House, Friargate (Backhouse room)

Date and Time

1st February 2025 at 10.30am – Air – Our desire to explore new territories, learn and expand our consciousness.

AIR – Our balance and duality of our nature – in our curiosity and research as we interact with our world; our relationships with others; our freedom to express as part of a community

Tickets and Price

Tickets are £22 and you order them here on Eventbrite

I attended my first conscious connected breathwork session early 2023 not really knowing what it was all about. Led by our very own weaver Shakti Tracy from Diamond Heart Network, I was blown away by the experience.

Having always been a seeker of ‘altered states of reality’ specifically in my younger years, I was fascinated by the concept of something as simple and accessible as our breath being able to support my journey of healing deep rooted wounding.

At first when I tried the continuous breath I struggled. I got a very dry mouth and was convinced I was ‘doing it wrong’. Imposter syndrome being a close companion of mine (we all know that one right?). We were journeying that day to meet our guides – divine masculine and divine feminine. I don’t remember who came through as my divine feminine in the first session (that I believed I was doing wrong!) as I was more concerned by ‘feeling silly’ and ‘getting it wrong’.

Before the second journey I sought out technique advice from my peers (whom I saw as much more knowledgeable!) I do remember thinking….’this wont work on me because my brain has been way too altered before by chemicals’ Self limiting beliefs were strong and I was resistant to allowing the natural flow.

We started the second session and I positioned myself more towards the corner of the room as I’d felt exposed in the first session being in the middle of room. I must add that the noises people were making during the session slightly baffled me. Screaming, crying, laughing, howling….what was going on that I just didn’t get? Nevertheless, I began breathing in earnest wiling myself to surrender and trust.

I can’t really describe what happened for the next hour. I was faced face to face with Thor and his mighty hammer along with a Minotaur. I came round a the end of the session wondering where the hell I was and what the heck had just happened. Pretty much like my first acid trip back in the 90’s. Just WOW! We all sat and shared and I was just so excited that I’d ‘got it right’ rather than focused on what the messages were for me. That processing came much later when in my own space.

My giddiness at my success overpowered the actual healing pathways it had provided for me. I knew then….I knew I needed more breathwork in my life.

My mum has raised me talking about how as humans we don’t breath properly and I’d often mused over her words but not really thought deeply about it. Having raised a son with chronic asthma, I knew he needed to breath deeper and I had often led mini ‘breathwork’ sessions with him when he was in hospital but suddenly all the pieces were coming together.

That summer I attended 5 wellbeing festivals leading Forest Bathing workshop sessions for folks in the conscious community and I made sure I attended as many breathwork sessions as I could. I paid for a 1:1 session with the amazing Julie Ann Horrox at LoveHerder “Getting High on Life” 2024 and she led me to shift some huge and painful blockages. She supported me with such love and nurture and the connection to her, her story and her presence filled me with joy. This consolidated my yearning to train as a breathwork facilitator. At Stone Cold Sober festival I was blessed to attended 6 sessions all with different facilitators and wow – this expanded my experience of how many ways there are to practice breathwork. I was hooked.

I became one of those people rolling around screaming, laughing, crying, chanting, howling and ultimately…releasing the stuff that wasnt even mine to begin with. Pure relief washed over me.

Early in Jan 2024, the universe served me another dose of health curveballs as my heart started to cry out with pressure. I listened but didn’t know what to do. Then I was released from a work situation that I hadn’t even realised had become very heavy on my shoulders (even though my neck was bad again needing surgery and I’d just had shoulder surgery – wakey wakey Lix!)

Once released from this time consuming role and with a long period of healing ahead – I had space open up in my life to again recreate and hone in on what I was being called to do. 1 week after my spinal surgery – I heard the call. I’d been growing closer with Shakti Tracy chatting about life, love and the universe and she mentioned that she was running a special April start course. She had felt the call to do an extra course this year and I took the sign. I signed up. Leapt hoping the net would appear. My finances being the worst they have been since I was young having had to surrender paid work because of my health.

I had been mediating hard on abundance, prosperity and more specifically doing a breathwork course for some time. My net appeared. Ok yes, it went more like ‘Dad? Please can you help me out?’

He has watched me since I had to leave my teaching career 3 years ago try to rebuild my life after my life changing injury at work and I know he chuckles at my ‘witchy’ ways but he had recently read about Breathwork in his daily paper and so he was ‘on board’ with this direction I wanted to take. He had only recently read this when I asked my favour….big ups universe.

So here I am now. A new neck, space in my life for a new venture, time and motivation to pour into the course and a really supportive network of wonderful authentic woman cheerleading me on.

2024 so far has been a wild ride of panic, fear, rejection, pain (mental and physical), confusion, challenges and heartache….but for each of those feelings it has brought authenticity, love, support, opportunities, huge joy, loyalty, progression, treasure and a vast wealth of excitement, growth and passion as all of it is a perfect sign of divine timing and absolute trust at the organic flow of our bloody beautiful universe!

Here I go with the truly transformational journey with my breath, your breath and the life with the universe breathes into us.

Lix from Elixir Breathwork – breathing is medicine for the soul.

To find out more about Lix take a look at her profile in Practitioners Corner

There comes a time in life when simply getting by just isn’t enough anymore. For many of us, the fast pace of life and constant demands can leave us feeling drained, disconnected, and stuck in a cycle of just surviving. I’ve been there and it’s not a pleasant place to be, so I know how important it is to find a way out of that pattern and into something more nourishing and fulfilling.

That’s what led me to create THRIVE with the Tree of Breath—a framework that goes beyond just coping and instead nurtures a genuine sense of thriving. Inspired by the growth of a tree, this approach weaves together breathwork, happiness practices, and gentle holistic techniques to help us grow stronger, feel grounded, and live with purpose.

Each part of the THRIVE journey mirrors a part of the tree, starting with roots that ground us, a trunk that supports us, branches that extend us, leaves that nourish us, flowers that connect us with others and finally, fruit that symbolises our empowerment. With our breath as our guide, this journey invites us to reconnect with our authentic selves, grow through life’s challenges, and rediscover the joy of simply being.
By rooting ourselves in intentional breath and aligning with our values, we can nurture resilience, discover deeper self-awareness, and, most importantly, create space to grow into the life we’ve always hoped for.

The Roots of the THRIVE framework are all about creating a solid foundation by grounding yourself in who you are and where you are right now. This stage combines Therapeutic Breath with reflective practices, like a life audit and values audit, to help you gain clarity on your current state and what truly matters to you. Here, we also focus on your breathing patterns, identifying ways to improve them because breathing well is at the root of all health—it impacts everything from your energy to your emotional resilience. Embracing your response-ability, or the power to choose how you respond to life’s challenges, is also key. Like roots stabilising a tree, this foundation grounds you, helping you approach each day with balance, strength, and a sense of possibility.

The Trunk of the THRIVE framework represents your inner strength and stability, the core that supports you through life’s challenges. At this stage, we focus on Happy Breath, a practice that nurtures emotional resilience and balance by connecting to the pillars of the body and heart. Just as the trunk holds up a tree, these practices help you find stability within, supporting your well-being in a way that feels solid and dependable. With techniques for emotional regulation and heart-centred breathing, the trunk stage invites you to cultivate calmness and compassion, building a strong core that enables you to weather whatever comes your way. This stage is all about standing tall, feeling centred, and rooting deeply into a sense of self-trust.

The Branches of the THRIVE framework symbolise growth beyond old limitations, stretching outward to reach new possibilities. This stage is all about Rewiring Breath, where we work on releasing limiting beliefs and patterns that may be holding you back. Just as branches extend outward, here we explore practices like NLP, Havening, EFT, and Conscious Connected Breathing to help you open up to fresh perspectives and transform your mental landscape. The branches stage invites you to reframe old habits and thoughts, creating space for new growth, flexibility, and empowerment. With each breath, you reach a little further, discovering the freedom that comes from letting go of what no longer serves you.

The Leaves of the THRIVE framework represent nourishment and renewal, drawing in light and energy to sustain your inner vitality. In this stage, we focus on Inner Nourishing Breath—practices that nurture your soul and feed your sense of well-being. Just as leaves absorb sunlight to sustain the tree, this stage invites you to take in what truly replenishes you. Through coherence breathing, flower essences, and connecting with your own inner wisdom, the leaves stage is about caring for yourself deeply and consistently. It’s a reminder that nourishment isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for growth. By tuning into what truly sustains you, you cultivate the resilience and vitality needed to flourish.

The Flowers of the THRIVE framework symbolise connection, beauty, and the joy of sharing who we are with others. In this stage, we focus on Vital Connecting Breath, using practices that foster empathy, compassion, and deeper relationships. Just as flowers bloom outwardly, this stage invites us to open up and connect with the world around us. Heart Coherence breathing and Loving Kindness practices are central here, helping you cultivate meaningful connections, both with yourself and others. The flowers remind us that true connection is a gift, bringing colour and vibrancy to life. By nurturing these bonds, you allow your relationships to blossom and enrich your journey.

The Fruit of the THRIVE framework represents the harvest of your journey—embodying empowerment, fulfillment, and purpose. This final stage focuses on Empowering Breath, using conscious connected breathwork to help you embrace your strength and step into your fullest self. Just as the fruit of a tree contains the seeds of new life, this stage is about realising the power and potential you’ve cultivated through each phase of growth. Here, breathwork encourages you to feel grounded in your accomplishments, aligned with your passions, and confident in the path ahead. The fruit stage is your chance to savour the journey, embodying the wisdom, resilience, and vitality you’ve nurtured within.

The THRIVE framework is a journey through growth, resilience, and self-discovery, each stage building on the one before it. Like a tree, our well-being is rooted in a strong foundation, and from there, we reach upward, nourish ourselves, connect with others, and finally harvest the fruits of our inner work. Through intentional breath and thoughtful practices, the THRIVE framework guides us from simply surviving to truly thriving, honouring each step as part of a whole, living process. By tending to our roots, trunk, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit, we reconnect with ourselves and the world around us in a way that feels grounded, balanced, and deeply fulfilling. In every breath, we find a new beginning, a reminder of our strength, and a pathway toward a life of growth and empowerment.

Marie Doherty – Empowering Women to Breathe, Thrive, and Shine.

To find out more about Marie, take a look at her profile in Practitioners Corner

I love this question! Although I only realised recently just how relevant it is to the work I do. I set up “Pick your Brains” sessions in response to the question “I don’t need a full coaching session, but may I pick your brains?”

As I was considering this, I realised how instinctively I had hit upon a perfect description of what these short 20-minute sessions were about. They are literally an invitation to pick my “brains”. Over my breathwork journey, I have realised the significance of our 3 brains and how we might feel or experience them in our bodies.

First the reptilian brain, our oldest brain and considered the least evolved, oh but how powerful and glorious this brain is. It is the brain that regulates our nervous system, that keeps us safe from real and perceived dangers. You probably know it as the fight, flight or freeze response. But I would like to propose that there is also a built-in early warning system that we might call gut instinct. A feeling in the belly that encourages us to check in. Maybe even to double check. Before we leap.

Then we move to our second brain, the limbic brain, that encourages us to feel and allow the movement of emotions. I liken this to our heart brain or our intuition. This is a quiet brain, that opens and closes in response to our listening. Perhaps with this brain we don’t understand the logic, but somehow, intuitively our heart feels open. Or indeed closed. This opening and closing of our intuition accesses an innate wisdom from deep within us that allows us to feel our way through whatever is before us. It is our intuitive felt sense.

Then finally our most recently evolved brain, the prefrontal cortex, the brain that allows us to follow the logic. Our intelligence. I would like to add a dimension to this and call it our imaginative intelligence. The organicity that catalogues our life experience to create our comfort zone, and that allows us simultaneously to explore our boundaries and to push them inwards and outwards, a little or maybe even a lot!

In my imagination it is like an elastic egg around us, that in overdrive can restrict us, contracting and making us small, in underdrive it has no edges or end and no learned experiences, so we barrel forward into the same behaviours without thought, in neutral it allows us space to explore just beyond where we are now, whilst still holding us. We can step forward or reach out in one area and it expands, or pull back in another and it contracts, gently shifting and changing in response to our explorations.

Each of these brains has a purpose in our lives, designed to work for us or with us in tandem. Enhancing our experience of life. Equally, each of these brains can go into overdrive or underdrive based on our experiences of life.

We can quiet the early warning signs of our gut instinct with an overdrive of taught logic that encourages us to keep going regardless. We can treat our heart with supreme reverence and forget that we have innate intelligence built up over lifetimes that supports our intuition. Like most of our brilliant body, they work better when harnessed together. We might call it teamwork.

They work better when asked, which of my beautiful brains is best placed to lead in this situation? And having established this, the evolved leader looks to his/her full team to find a balanced solution from all the wisdom and experience contained within. In business we call this situational leadership. One size does not fit all situations, we will rarely find the solution in the energy that created the problem.

Using this approach in combination with breathwork has led to my absolute genius moments, to my healing of wounds with love and compassion, to the unleashing of my creativity, to the gentle support needed in the moment of crisis.

And so, when you pick my brains, you are really allowing me to guide you towards accessing your own three brains. Your gut instinct, the intuition of your heart and your innate imaginative intelligence.

Sharyn-With-A-Why

To find out more about Sharyn, take a look at her profile in Practitioners Corner

There is a huge difference between the point of infatuation that you feel when you first meet a potential partner in life or even just for a season vs the gentle falling in love process that happens over time as you get to know that person, begin to share yourself with that person and then to see how you weave and create together.
It’s a great analogy for my relationship with breath work thus far. My first experience was explosive. Very much like that lightening bolt of infatuation or attraction, the magnetic pull that leads you in ever deeper.
But like most relationships, at some point the deepening becomes more important than the emotional reaction to the chemical synapses.

“I encourage you, in fact it’s a requirement of graduating the course, to have a daily breath work practice” says my breath work teacher. I roll my eyes heavenward. The infatuation period is over.
I have always struggled with a daily practice. Prayer or bible reading when I was religious. Daily visualisation and manifestation techniques as I began to explore spirituality. Daily exercise .. ever! Daily posting on social media as I started my business. Getting up early and finishing your day before everyone else has started. Daily juicing – I could go on, the list of these daily must do’s is exhausting!
I give a big sigh! Another ‘daily’ to fail at. Consequently, I make a very half-hearted attempt. I recorded my singing bowls to utilise in 3.6.5 breath inspired by a fellow facilitator. I bribe myself, no coffee until you’ve taken conscious breath outside for at least 5 minutes etc etc. Nothing works.

Eventually, in a fit of pique akin to a two-year-old tantrum I screech “I will NOT” (inside my head obviously!!) or in adult speak, I release the ‘trying’ and let it go into the alchemy of natural change.
What I noticed as I did this, was quite miraculous.

Nothing happened immediately of course, but as I forgot my childlike tantrum and forgot about my resistance, over a period of time, I found myself turning to and integrating breath into my everyday life. When I took a walk, I began counting my breath and so I introduced what I call Square breathing, but others may recognise it as Box Breath. As I prepared to read or prepared to write I found myself naturally starting with a few rounds of conscious connected nose breathing. When I was struggling with learning a concept or making a connection, I turned to conscious connected open mouth breathing. When I needed to explore my inner senses, I sparked my creativity by breathing into my 3 inner brains – instinct, intuition, and intelligence – employing felt sense to guide me. When I felt scattered, I took a few deep breaths to gather myself back in. When I wanted to connect with people, I encouraged breathing together.
Without actually ‘doing’ or ‘trying’ anything, simply by being natural, I was incorporating so much more than a contrived daily practice into my life. Conscious breathing was becoming an integral part of who I am.
As I reflect on this, I return to my analogy of falling in love. No longer a frenzy of infatuation, conscious breathing is becoming the love of my life. A deep connection that I miss when it’s not there, something I turn to in times of need, something I turn to in times of celebration, something I can’t help but speak about whenever I get the opportunity, and anyone will listen!

This blog was first written as part of my facilitator training with Breathing Space, the school where I now teach. This next paragraph is a recent addition.

Like a relationship with a person, I began to take breath for granted, and forgot to appreciate and to engage with the breath quite as regularly. This coincided with a very stressful time in my life. Where the support of the breath would have been so welcomed and was certainly needed! Unlike some of our human relationships, the breath is nonjudgemental and is there for me whenever I return, offering the same sage wisdom, and sharing the experiences that I need in the moment. Every time.

I’m learning the radical act of self-love (to let go of perfectionism) and to be kind to myself, reminding myself of my mastery in this field and letting myself return gently to that place of constant connection. So, if as you read my earlier words you thought “That’s ok for you, I’m not there yet!” Trust me, nor am I, nor will I ever be. I’m learning though, that I don’t need to be ‘there’ I just need to turn up. Wherever I am. Right here. Right now. And as long as I show up, the breath will meet me there.

PS – thankfully most of my humans have supported me during my stressful times too. So, thank you one and all from my heart to yours. You each know who you are. xx

Sharyn-With-A-Why

To find out more about Sharyn, take a look at her profile in Practitioners Corner

Breathe Life into Your Calling and Transform Lives – Through the Power of Breath

Sharyn with a Why is a senior teacher and course leader with Breathing Space

Are you ready to embark on a journey that will not only change your life but empower you to guide others towards transformation? Our Hybrid Breathwork Facilitator Training could be knocking!

As someone who’s walked this path, I can tell you that the relationship with your breath can be truly life-changing. From my first conscious breath to a consistent state of breath awareness, I’ve experienced first-hand the wisdom and empowerment that comes from this practice. Could it be your turn to dive deep and emerge as a skilled facilitator, ready to share this gift with the world?

Why Choose Our Hybrid Training?

  • 400 hours of comprehensive training accredited by the GPBA
  • We combine an online course created by Breathing Space Founder Benedict Beaumont, with in-person workshop days created by Sharyn, held in the beautiful city of York.
  • Working with the energy of nature. The workshops not only reflect the practical element of the course, but also the energy of the moment. Blending online flexibility with in-person magic
  • A unique blend of Group activities and connection, Self learning, and 1-2-1 coaching support
  • Learn both the art and science of breathwork facilitation where anatomy and physiology meets the spirit of Breathwork.
  • Become part of a supportive Community of like-minded and like-hearted souls, who breathe together, and learn together.
  • Embark on a personal and professional journey that we call the twin trail
  • Trauma-informed approach

Hear from Our Trainees

“If you are looking to develop your skills and qualification as a breathwork facilitator, I would highly recommend Sharyn’s Hybrid Breathwork Facilitator Course.
Sharyn is an incredibly supportive leader, who is not just here to impart knowledge, but to ensure you are guided on your own Journey to fully embody the tools and practices into life and business” – Carly

“After nearly two decades of CPDs, I have a healthy phobia of training days. But I’ve loved each and every one of Sharyn’s workshop and have really enjoyed the shared exploration that we undertake on each one.
Each time, I get ideas and new perspectives that ‘land’ straight away, but also several that plant seeds and grow over the weeks that follow.
I’m grateful to Sharyn for putting this together and would thoroughly recommend the hybrid route for anyone with an interest in breathwork.” – Marek

Ready to take the next step?

Book a no-pressure Connection Call with me, Sharyn, and let’s explore if this journey is right for you. There’s no hard sell (yuk!). It’s a space for us to connect, understand your goals, and explore whether our training aligns with your path.

Breathing-Space-Facilitator-Training-
Breathing-Space-Facilitator-Training

Still unsure? Visit my website to learn more about me and get a feel for how I could help you https://sharyn-with-a-why.co.uk

Incorporating breathwork into your daily routine can be simple and effective, when our students begin their facilitator training with Breathing Space, we encourage a short daily practice and a longer breathwork at least once a week:

  1. Morning practice: Start with 5-10 minutes of rhythmic breathing upon waking.
  2. Commute breaths: Practice a gentle lung stretch during your commute (if not driving, for example at traffic lights).
  3. Work breaks: Take short breathing breaks between tasks. Perhaps try 4-7-8 breath whilst the kettle is boiling.
  4. Mealtime mindfulness: Practice breath awareness before meals, just noticing how you are feeling and how you are breathing.
  5. Stress response: Use quick techniques like box breathing during stressful moments.
  6. Exercise warm-up/cool-down: Incorporate breathwork before and after workouts.
  7. Bedtime ritual: Practice calming techniques before sleep, again rhythmic breathing is great.
  8. App reminders: Use smartphone apps to remind you to practice throughout the day.
  9. Pair with habits: Attach breathwork to existing habits like brushing your teeth.
  10. Mindful moments: Use daily activities (e.g., waiting in line) as cues for brief practice.

Start small and gradually increase. Consistency is key – even short, regular sessions can be highly beneficial. Experiment to find what works best for your lifestyle and needs. For me, I simply started with Breath Awareness at various points during the day, and developed my practice from there. I have to confess, this deteriorated during a particularly difficult time for me, and my regular longer breathworks actually kept me on track, so be aware and be kind to yourself.

“Results” is an interesting concept as the idea in itself is subjective, so the timeline for seeing results from breathwork can vary depending on the individual, the results that are hoped for, and the specific practice:

  1. Immediate effects: Some benefits, like reduced stress or improved focus, can be felt after a single session.
  2. Short-term results: Consistent daily practice for 1-2 weeks can lead to noticeable improvements in stress levels and sleep quality.
  3. Medium-term changes: After 4-6 weeks of regular practice, many people report significant improvements in overall well-being, anxiety management, and energy levels.
  4. Long-term benefits: Sustained practice over several months can lead to more profound changes in stress resilience, emotional regulation, and even some physiological markers.

We are all individual, with a complex mix of body needs, soul needs, mind needs, and emotional needs all intertwined. Some individuals may notice changes more quickly than others. It’s important to approach breathwork with patience and consistency. While some benefits can be immediate, the most significant and lasting changes often come with regular, long-term practice.

Breathwork and meditation are closely related practices that often complement each other, my breathwork ‘grandfather’ describes Breathwork as “Meditating without meditation”!

Meditation actually comes from the Latin word meditatio, which is derived from the verb meditari meaning “to think, contemplate, devise, ponder”. it was originally practiced as a form of focus, imagine choosing a leaf and spending a considerable amount of time just contemplating that leaf.

Somewhere in history Meditation has translated to ‘clearing the mind’ which I think is impossible and unnecessary .. but that’s maybe a full article for another day rather than just a Q&A. For now here are some more popular thoughts:

  1. Shared focus: Both practices involve focused attention, often using the breath as an anchor.
  2. Mindfulness: Both encourage present-moment awareness and observation of thoughts and sensations.
  3. Relaxation: Both can induce a relaxation response in the body.
  4. Stress reduction: Both are effective tools for managing stress and anxiety.
  5. Mind-body connection: Both practices strengthen the connection between mental and physical states.
  6. Complementary techniques: Many meditation practices incorporate specific breathing techniques.
  7. Preparation: Breathwork is often used as a preliminary practice to settle the mind before meditation.
  8. Altered states: Both can lead to altered states of consciousness, though breathwork can be more active.
  9. Spiritual aspects: Both have roots in spiritual traditions, though they can be practiced secularly.
  10. Accessibility: Both can be practiced without special equipment, making them widely accessible.

While meditation often involves a more passive observation of the breath, breathwork actively manipulates breathing patterns. Many practitioners find that combining both practices enhances their overall benefits and provides a more comprehensive approach to mental and physical well-being.

The frequency of breathwork practice depends on individual goals, the specific technique used, and personal schedule. Here are some general guidelines:

For basic relaxation techniques:

  • Daily practice: 5-10 minutes, once or twice a day, can be beneficial for stress management and overall well-being.
  • Integrate into routine: Practice during natural breaks or before stressful situations.

For more intensive techniques:

  • 2-3 times per week: 15-30 minute sessions for techniques like box breathing or alternate nostril breathing.
  • Weekly: Longer sessions (30-60 minutes) for more advanced practices like holotropic breathwork.

For beginners:

  • Start with 5 minutes daily, gradually increasing duration and frequency.
  • Consistency is key – regular, shorter sessions are often more beneficial than infrequent, longer ones.

Always listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Some people may benefit from multiple short sessions throughout the day, while others prefer one longer session. It’s also important to follow guidelines for specific techniques, especially more intense ones, to avoid overexertion.