Summary
In this solo episode of Collective Guidance, host Charla Goodnight explores the profound connection between breath, body, and soul. From her first transformative experience with Breath of Bliss in 2014 to rediscovering the practice years later through science-backed HRV tracking, Charla opens up about how conscious breathing has helped her regulate her nervous system, raise her HRV, and reconnect to her higher self.
She also breaks down what heart rate variability (HRV) really means, why it's one of the most important indicators of health, and how simple daily breathwork can shift you from stress and anxiety into peace and presence.
Whether you're new to breathwork or seeking to deepen your practice, this episode will remind you of one simple truth: your breath is always your anchor.
Takeaways
Your breath mirrors your state of being. Shallow or held breath often signals fear or disconnection. Conscious breath brings you back home to yourself.
Breathwork bridges ancient wisdom and modern science. Techniques like box breathing or extended exhale activate calm and balance the nervous system.
HRV (Heart Rate Variability) is a measure of your body's resilience — a higher HRV means better adaptability to stress.
Daily breathwork can raise HRV and improve emotional regulation, sleep, and focus — no fancy tools required.
Three simple techniques:
Box Breathing (4x4x4x4)
Extended Exhale (Inhale 4, Exhale 6–8)
Three Conscious Breaths — anytime, anywhere
Your breath is free medicine. It's the first and last thing you do in life — always available, always sacred.
00:00 – The Power of Breath: Connecting to Your Soul
01:05 – Charla's First Breathwork Experience (Breath of Bliss)
03:39 – Rediscovering Breathwork and HRV
06:15 – What is HRV and Why It Matters
08:31 – Practical Breath Work Techniques
10:40 – Daily Practices: Box Breathing, Extended Exhale, Three Conscious Breaths
14:09 – The Power of Breath in Daily Life
15:45 – Remembering Ancient Wisdom Within
16:50 – Closing Reflection & Message of Presence
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