The Breath Struggles That Impacted My Work and Health

Years ago, I developed a lingering cough that would flare up mid-class—right in the middle of teaching. I’d have to leave the room, cough frantically, then try to recompose myself to continue.

For a Pilates teacher who relied on their voice and presence, this was incredibly stressful.

At the same time, my own workouts—hill running and road biking—left me breathless and with a soaring heart rate. Later, after a series of personal stressors and even a hospital stay, I was diagnosed with asthma.

The inhalers helped… kind of. I used preventers and relievers daily for over six years. But nothing really addressed the root cause. And as a teacher, I felt frustrated. I could help my clients—but not myself.

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Finding a Solution in the Breath

Everything changed when I read Close Your Mouth by Patrick McKeown. The science behind nasal breathing, carbon dioxide tolerance, and simple breath holds made complete sense.

I immediately switched to nasal breathing when running—and it became my built-in self-regulator. I also began practicing Many Small Breath Holds, a deceptively simple exercise that finally stopped the coughing during class.

With a quick pause in breath, I could calm my nerves and prevent the coughing spiral. It felt like I had my teaching voice back.

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From Personal Healing to Professional Integration

My son also developed asthma and was hospitalized multiple times before age four. Using MyoTape at night and teaching him gentle breath holds helped transform his sleep and breathing.

I realized that this wasn’t just a personal solution—it was a professional revolution.

I reached out to Patrick and asked, “Can I really integrate this into my Pilates work?” The answer was a clear yes. And once I started, the impact was immediate.

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Why Breathwork and Pilates Are a Perfect Match

Pilates already emphasizes nasal breathing, core control, and diaphragmatic engagement—but it rarely talks about volume, cadence, or air hunger.

Now, I weave Oxygen Advantage® principles into every class. I teach exclusively with nasal breathing and gently guide my clients toward awareness of breath rhythm and depth.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Transitions have been smooth—even among older adults. And I’ve found that clients with balance issues respond especially well to calming, breath-led practices.

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Taking It Deeper with OA Instructor Training

I began with the Buteyko training and eventually completed the full Oxygen Advantage® Instructor Training—in person, with master instructors. It was such a powerful experience that I’m considering doing it again.

I now run day retreats that include cold water immersion, breathwork, and movement. None of it would be possible without the calming techniques I’ve learned through OA.

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Breathwork Has Become the Core of My Practice

I teach 90+ clients a week, and the breath is central to everything we do. The transformation in my own health—and in my son’s—fuels my passion for sharing this work.

Whether you’re a movement professional, therapist, or coach, Oxygen Advantage® offers tools that are simple, science-based, and truly life-changing.

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Want to Take Your Teaching to the Next Level?

Deepen your impact as a movement professional with breathwork techniques that enhance body awareness, calm the nervous system, and support real, lasting change.

Start your training today and use code EXHALE10 for an exclusive discount on your training.