Breathing is something we do all day, often without thinking about it. When we live with pain or stress, we may hold our breath, brace our muscles or find ourselves breathing with more effort. This education-focused group medical visit explores these patterns and introduces gentle ways to make breathing feel more comfortable.

You’ll learn how breathing connects with the nervous system and how the diaphragm, rib cage, abdominal muscles and pelvic floor work together. We’ll also explore how comfortable positioning and support can help muscles relax, without needing to find a “perfect” posture.

Alongside education, the session includes some guided practice, with opportunities to:

• Use grounding techniques to connect with your surroundings and the support beneath you.

• Notice your natural breathing patterns before making any changes.

• Explore softer, smoother breathing and a comfortably longer exhale.

• Try supported positions that may help ease tension.

• Learn how breathing can support gentle movement and everyday activities, such as standing, pushing and lifting.

You’ll leave with strategies to try during stressful moments or pain flare-ups, along with additional resources to help you explore and practise at home. You’re encouraged to participate at your own pace, adjust your position and take breaks whenever you need.

What to have ready:

• Essential: A comfortable chair, ideally with back support.

• Optional: Pillows, cushions or rolled towels if you’d like to explore alternative breathing positions.

• Optional: A comfortable space to lie down, such as a bed, couch or mat, with pillows for support.

• Optional: A footrest or a few sturdy books if your feet don’t comfortably reach the floor.

You can participate entirely while seated. No special equipment or previous breathing experience is needed.

This session is led by Andrea Palichuk (physiotherapist) and Dr. Noah Alexander.

Current patients can book here.