For over 15 years, driven by my thirst for knowledge and personal growth, I embarked on a transformative journey filled with numerous courses and certifications. Each step along the way proved immensely valuable, shaping my path to self-discovery. However, it was an extraordinary retreat I attended in June 2022 that forever changed my life.

 

Approaching the retreat with an open mind, I found myself introduced to an intriguing practice known as Conscious Connected Breathwork. As I settled into the session, the sound filled with tribal drumming, captivating my senses. Breathing rapidly in a rhythm I had never experienced before, I encountered a torrent of thoughts. "This is so challenging," I muttered to myself. Doubts began to cloud my mind. How long would I have to endure this? Should I stop? Why are my fingers tingling? 

 

In a serendipitous moment, the facilitator seemed to read my thoughts, stepping in with reassuring words. "If your mind wanders, return to your breath. Believe in your ability to do this. It may seem difficult, but remember, it is simply breathing. If dizziness arises, acknowledge it. And if your fingers tingle, you're doing it right!" With those encouraging words, I started to settle into the rhythm of my breath.

 

Suddenly, I found myself transcending the realm of thought and physicality. It was as though I shed the constraints of my body and simply existed in the present moment. A radiant light seemed to emanate from behind my closed eyelids, illuminating my inner world. Colors danced and swirled, captivating my senses. And then, like a thunderbolt, a surge of emotion overwhelmed me—a fury that surpassed mere anger. It was hatred, a feeling I had long forgotten I was capable of experiencing. "But I don't hate anyone," I protested inwardly. Yet, deep within me, I discovered a profound resentment that had been dormant. In that moment, I recognized that someone had manipulated and belittled me, causing me to lose sight of my true self. I despised the person I had become during that period of my life.

 

Despite my efforts to overcome these emotions through therapy, journaling, reiki, meditation, and various energy work, the hatred had remained buried within me. But in the sacred space of the Breathwork session, I finally allowed myself to fully embrace this potent emotion without judgment. It was as if I had granted myself permission to feel the pain I had carried for nearly a decade. I screamed, I cried, and I even unleashed my frustration by pounding the floor. And then, amidst the storm of emotions, I returned to the simplicity of my breath.

 

As I emerged from this profound experience, I was filled with awe. It felt as if I had released a heavy burden that had weighed me down both physically and mentally. I tasted true freedom. On that transformative day, I made a solemn vow to explore the various Breathwork techniques available, seeking a method that would yield rapid and safe results. I made a promise to share this precious gift with others. Since then, I have diligently practiced a form of conscious connected breathing, peeling back layers of myself with each session. I am on a quest to unearth the hidden corners of my being, to discover the most authentic and true version of Kristina Dion. And in this journey of self-discovery, I am constantly amazed as I rediscover forgotten fragments of my essence, piece by piece.