"The Mind is Restless, Unsteady, Turbulent, Wild, Stubborn;Truly it Seems to Me as Hard to Master as the Wind." - Bhagavad Gita
My Story
Running On Adrenaline Can't Last Forever
For the first few years of school I spent more time out of class due to disruptions I caused from my inability to sit still. As a teenager playing rugby was a great way to burn energy and blow off steam. Into my twenties, rugby continued to be a great way to stay in shape, I could feed off adrenaline, relieve stress and importantly tire out my ever busy mind and constant inner chatter.
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A Racing Mind, ADHD, Stress and Prescription Drugs
In my early thirties, I was married with a young family, and my career was taking off. After retiring from rugby, the adrenaline rush and dopamine levels that came with it subsided, and the stress and pressures of life began to take their toll. A psychiatrist diagnosed me with ADHD, and stress-related depression, prescribing Wellbutrin to improve my mood, and Ritalin to help me become more focused.
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Self-Discovery, and Healing
Although prescription drugs addressed my short term needs, I felt I was in a haze, not fully present, not fully myself, exhausted at the end of each day. A few months in I was 25 lbs lighter, and while the medication had lifted the dark clouds, I knew it wasn't sustainable. My psychiatrist suggested I try Transcendental Meditation. And so began my journey of healing, self-discovery, and growth.
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​Personal Growth, Expanding our Minds and Getting Closer to Our Full Potential
For over 30 years, I have been on a journey of personal growth that has helped me quiet the mind and cultivate an inner stillness. This has led to less stress, improved relaxation and sleep, better concentration, and importantly being fully present in the moment. From Holotropic breathwork retreats in the early 1990s, to Russian Banyas, Shamanic Journeying, Wild Swimming, Cold Water Therapy, or Fire Walking, I've explored various paths to personal growth and mental fitness.
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"Most importantly I learned how to be present in the moment
to experience everything that life has to offer."
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Along the way, I've studied Neuro Linguistic Programming, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Emotional Intelligence, Sleep, the Science of Happiness, and Mindfulness. Graduating as a Mesa Carrier from the Austin Shamanic Center has deepened my connection to nature, fostered personal healing, spiritual growth, and self-awareness. And yes, I've also read a lot of books, some of which are listed here.
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"All of this has helped me find my way to live each day
in integrity with myself and the world around me."
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I am a Certified Life Awareness™ Pranayama Breathwork Instructor, an Oxygen Advantage® Functional Breathing Instructor, based on the Buteyko Method, and a Professional Member of the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF).
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Over the years, I've developed a diverse toolbox of personal growth, healing techniques and practices that promote harmony of the mind, body, and spirit to foster a healthier, happier, more productive and purposeful life.
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"My goal is to share these tools with others, empowering them to heal and grow,
and discover inner peace, happiness and success."
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Stephen Ryan, Founder
BreathAware
Austin, TX
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Certificates & Related Training
Pranayama Breathwork Instructor
Yoga Life Awareness Project
YogaLAP
A Pranayama Breathwork Instructor from YogaLAP is a certified professional who specializes in teaching and guiding students in the practice of Pranayama, a yogic breathing technique that involves breath control and regulation. Through expert instruction, they help individuals enhance their breath awareness, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being.
Functional Breathing Instructor
Oxygen Advantage® based on the Buteyko Method
An Oxygen Advantage functional breathing instructor is a trained professional who specializes in teaching the techniques that focus on optimizing breathing patterns for improved health and athletic performance. They guide individuals in various breathing exercises and practices aimed at enhancing oxygen utilization, reducing breathlessness, and increasing overall physical and mental well-being.
International Breathwork Foundation
The International Breathwork Foundation (IBF) is a global organization that fosters the development and promotion of breathwork practices worldwide. It serves as a hub for breathwork practitioners, trainers, and enthusiasts, facilitating collaboration, research, and education to support the advancement and recognition of breathwork as a valuable tool for personal and collective well-being.
Renaissance Life Therapies.
Transformation Academy™
A "Life Story Coach" helps individuals explore and understand their life experiences, memories, and personal narratives. Through guided discussions, exercises, and reflection, a life story coach assists clients in uncovering the underlying themes, patterns, and beliefs that shape their identity and life choices. The goal of life story coaching is to foster self-awareness, personal growth, and empowerment by empowering individuals to reframe their life stories and create a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Management and Leadership Development Program.
Willie Horton FCCA AITI MMII MBPsS
A comprehensive and insightful approach to understanding the psychological aspects of success, effective management, and leadership skills. Participants gain valuable insights into themselves and others, enhancing their abilities to lead and manage effectively, fostering personal growth, productivity, and impactful decision-making.
Austin Shamanic Center
A Mesa Carrier is an individual who has successfully completed a comprehensive year-long training program rooted in the Q'ero shamanic tradition of Peru. This training equips them with profound knowledge and practical skills in ancient shamanic healing techniques, rituals, and ceremonies. As a result, a Mesa Carrier is capable of serving as a practitioner or guide, facilitating personal healing, spiritual growth, self-awareness, and fostering a deep connection to nature and the spiritual realm. This transformative journey also cultivates a sense of integrity, allowing the Mesa Carrier to authentically harmonize with themselves and the world around them.
CSA Marketplace™
A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Life Coach is a specialized life coach who incorporates principles and techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy into their coaching approach. They help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that may be hindering personal growth and success. Through CBT-based coaching, clients learn practical strategies to modify their behaviors, improve coping skills, and achieve their goals while fostering positive changes in their lives.
"Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky.
Conscious breathing is my anchor." - Thich Nhat Hanh
The Incredible Power of Breath
Discover the Power of Your Breath for Holistic Health and Well-Being
We believe that the breath is the key to unlocking a life of vitality, peace, and transformation. Our mission is to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, empowering you with the knowledge and techniques to harness the incredible potential of your breath for both physical and mental well-being.
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Why the Breath Matters
The breath is a profound and often overlooked tool that can significantly impact every aspect of our lives. When used consciously, it has the power to influence our body, mind, and emotions, bringing harmony and balance to our existence. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving focus and clarity, the breath holds the potential to enhance your life in ways you may have never imagined.
Our Approach
At BreathAware, we offer a comprehensive and personalized approach to breath coaching. Our expert coaches have a deep understanding of the science and ancient wisdom behind breathwork and are passionate about guiding you through this transformative journey.
Through one-on-one sessions, workshops, and online courses, we provide a safe and supportive space to explore the art of conscious breathing. Whether you are a complete beginner or have experience with breathwork, we tailor our programs to meet your unique needs and goals.
What You'll Learn
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Master various breathing techniques to energize, relax, and rejuvenate your body and mind.
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Develop mindfulness and presence through breath awareness, unlocking a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.
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Discover how to release emotional tension and cultivate emotional intelligence through breath-centered practices.
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Learn how to use the breath as a powerful tool for managing stress, anxiety, and other challenges life may throw your way.
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Improve your overall physical health and vitality through breath exercises that support respiratory function, immunity, and overall well-being.
Embark on a Journey of Transformation
Breathwork is not just a passing trend; it's a time-honored practice that has been embraced by cultures worldwide for its profound impact on human life. With BreathAware, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, taking the first step towards a more vibrant and empowered life.
Join the community of like-minded individuals who are exploring the boundless potential of their breath and see how this simple yet profound practice can revolutionize your well-being.
Are you ready to unlock the power of your breath? Let's begin this transformative journey together.
Take the first breath towards positive change and book a session with us today.
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