In this episode of Unabridged You, Julie sits down with UK-based breathwork facilitator, trainer and founder of Breathguru, Alan Dolan to explore the depth and integrity of breathwork.
Breathwork has been mentioned by several guests on this podcast as a powerful part of their journey toward becoming more authentic and unabridged. In this conversation, we go deeper.
Alan shares how he first came to breathwork over 22 years ago — long before it entered mainstream wellness spaces — and why he continues to choose this work today, explaining that it is not a trend but a powerful tool.
At the heart of the episode is the big question: What is breathwork?
Alan answers by bringing together both physiology and lived experience. He explains how this foundational human function, when engaged with intentionally (and safely), has the potential to directly influence the nervous system and create a kind of “factory reset” — a bridge that recalibrates and re/connects the visible and invisible aspects of self and existence.
We also touch on the growing research around breathwork, including doctoral-level study exploring its potential role in supporting anxiety.
This episode invites you to reconsider your relationship with your breath — not as a trend or quick fix, but as a powerful tool for awareness, regulation and self-acceptance.