It was while studying breathing and

vocal techniques in university that I

noticed my search for a richer, clearer

speaking voice was also creating a

richer, deeper emotional life. I felt

I had more agency in relation to my

emotions as they came and went.

And the more I felt the sensation of my

own breath, the more in-tune I felt with

myself as a whole. And, yes, my voice

became more resonant, but I was more

interested in the sensation of my voice 

than the sound.

 

I became curious about the relationship

between the work I was doing and its

impact on my nervous system. What was it about the methods

I was employing in my actor training that made me feel so much better about being... me? This led me down a rabbit hole of neuroscience journals, essays from trauma therapists, academic publications, and somatic work. What I concluded (in brief) was this: when we allow ourselves the time and space to soften and tune into the sensations in our bodies, we signal to our system that we are safe. Bessel van der Kolk speaks of the importance of a "visceral feeling of safety" in the process of healing from trauma and flourishing as individuals and communities. This has become very clear to me in my own lived experience.  

 

Since studying with Breathexperience Canada and receiving authorization to teach the method, I have noticed a significant positive impact on my emotional health and overall sense of wellbeing. Access to my creative tools feels freer and more reliable where before it felt felt unsatisfactory and inconsistent. Flow state is much more accessible to me than it ever was, and stage fright no longer threatens to sabotage my auditions. The amount of clarity and confidence I have been able to offer myself through this simple process is startling. I look forward to helping others find their own path.