What Is Breathwork? A Simple Guide to Breathing for Calm, Energy and Emotional Healing

Breathwork might seem like a new trend, but it’s actually one of the most powerful and natural tools we can use to support both our mental and physical wellbeing. Many of our community have already tried the Clear Minds Breathwork sessions with Sophie, now available on our website and app.

To help more people understand what breathwork is, how it works, and how it can support things like anxiety, sleep, and emotional healing, Terri sat down with Sophie to learn more.

What is Breathwork?

Terri: Sophie, can you give us a simple explanation of what breathwork is?

Sophie: Many people don’t realise they are breathing inefficiently. They may breathe into their upper chest only, or hold their breath when stressed, without even noticing.

Breathwork is when we use our breath consciously to shift how we feel. By changing the way we breathe, we can move from feeling anxious to calm, scattered to focused, or even energised when tired. Every breath affects our emotional and physical state, and when we learn to guide it with intention, we can create real change in our bodies and minds.

Why Breathwork Helps

Terri: That makes sense. I often notice I’m holding my breath when I feel tense. How long have you been practising?

Sophie: About five years, alongside my meditation practice. Breathwork has supported me emotionally, especially after cancer treatment. Just a few minutes of conscious breathing each day can improve energy, sleep, mood and focus. You don’t need to do much to feel the benefits.

We get 90% of our energy from oxygen, yet most people use only 30% of their lung capacity. When we start breathing more fully, we feel better across every part of life.

Benefits of Breathwork

Some of the key benefits of breathwork include:

  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Improved sleep and energy
  • More emotional balance
  • A stronger connection to your body
  • Support for healing and releasing tension

There are different breathing techniques for different outcomes. That’s why the Clear Minds Breathwork sessions include a variety of options, from calming to energising.

A Simple Daily Habit

Terri: I used one of the energising sessions on the Clear Minds app last week, and it really helped me avoid that mid-afternoon crash. How often do you practise?

Sophie: I do a short session each morning, sometimes just 3–5 minutes. I’ll take 30 connected breaths and hold briefly after each exhale. It’s a peaceful way to start the day and helps me feel more grounded.

What Surprised You Most?

Terri: What has been the most surprising thing you’ve learned from breathwork?

Sophie: That changing your breath can change your life. Breathing deeply can help release old emotions and trauma held in the body. We store so much within us, and breathwork offers a gentle way to let it go. It’s a simple practice that creates deep transformation.

Who Should Try Breathwork?

Terri: Who do you think would benefit most?

Sophie: Everyone who breathes! Whether you're feeling anxious, tired, or overwhelmed, or you simply want to feel more calm and present, breathwork is for you. It’s simple, effective and easy to fit into daily life.

Ready to Try It?

If you’re curious about using breathwork for anxiety, sleep, emotional healing or daily balance, we recommend the Clear Minds Breathwork Package with Sophie. These guided sessions are beginner friendly, supportive, and easy to follow.

 

👉 Try the Breathwork Sessions with Sophie today

 

We’d love to hear your experience. Share your thoughts in the comments or in our Clear Minds Facebook support group.

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