Breathwork

The Sacred Breath Method (SBM) is a powerful modality of Conscious, Connected Breathwork, created by Kaya Danielle Leigh, founder of Sacred Breath Academy. One of the key distinctions of this method is the use of a nose inhale rather than the more commonly taught mouth inhale. This subtle but profound shift supports the nervous system, creating a greater sense of safety, regulation, and embodiment — allowing the body to soften and open more deeply to the experience.

Another defining element of this work is the ceremonial, long-form container it’s held within. Rather than a quick or rushed experience, SBM honors the depth and sacredness of breathwork by creating intentional space for a full journey — where each phase, from preparation to integration, is given the time and reverence it deserves.

This method was born out of a deep recognition that much of the breathwork being practiced today tends to be overly forceful, stimulating, or dissociative — pushing people “out there” rather than guiding them gently and safely “in here,” into the depths of their own bodies and emotional landscapes.

SBM offers an alternative: a more intentional, somatic, and integrative approach to breathwork. It honors the uniqueness of each individual’s nervous system and healing journey, steering away from one-size-fits-all methods in favor of presence, receptivity, and inner attunement. Rather than chasing the temporary “highs” of rapid oxygenation, this method invites us to slow down and meet what is actually alive within us — the unresolved, unspoken, and unmet layers that are ready to be seen, felt, and healed.

Breathwork through the Sacred Breath Method is an experiential, body-led practice that uses conscious, connected breathing to access expanded states of awareness, unlock repressed emotions, and clear stagnant energy from the mind, body, and spirit. By increasing oxygen levels in a conscious and supported way, we stimulate different areas of the brain to form new neural pathways, gain clarity, and meet the root of old emotional imprints — creating space for true integration and deep healing.

Because of the profound and transformative nature of this work, this offering is held as a 3-hour workshop. This allows for a full arc of the journey — from grounding and preparation, to the breath experience itself, and into spacious integration afterward. Integration is a vital part of this practice, ensuring the insights and shifts that arise are fully anchored and embodied.

Breathwork results in certain specific physiological changes in the body and also can result in intense physical and emotional release. As a precaution, the following conditions are contraindicated in certain breathwork practices. Please reach out with any questions or to see if you are eligible for a gentle modified breath.

-Pregnancy (at any stage)

- Severe PTSD or trauma

- Actively using recreational drugs

- Taking any medication that alters brain chemistry like anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, ADD, OCD medications, etc.

- Prescription blood thinners or anti-clotting medications - Osteoporosis
- Detached Retina
- Glaucoma

- Kidney disease
- High Blood Pressure

- Cardiovascular disease, including angina, previous heart attack, or any other cardiovascular issues

- Strokes or TIAs

- Seizures, history of seizures or other brain/neurological condition or disease

- Diagnosis of aneurysm (of any kind)

- Uncontrolled thyroid conditions

- Diabetes (any type)

- Severe Asthma— for mild to moderate asthma, we can discuss but you must bring your inhaler to the session

- Epilepsy
- Prior diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or previous psychiatric condition
- Severe psychosomatic disorders
- Recent surgery, stitches or injury
- Hospitalization for any psychiatric condition or emotional crisis within the last 10 years

- Any other medical, psychiatric or physical conditions which would impair or affect ability to engage in any activities that involve deep physical and/or emotional release