Question 1

What is breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Breathwork refers to a variety of breathing techniques and exercises that can be used to improve one’s physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual health. It exists in a variety of forms; there are ancient practices, such as pranayama, and modern techniques developed by doctors and other practitioners.  The term pranayama is derived from several Sanskrit roots; prana meaning “vital life force,” yama meaning “control'' and ayama meaning “extension” or “expansion.” According to Dr. Stanislov Grof , a psychiatrist and one of the premiere researchers of breathwork in the Western world. A similar concept in traditional Chinese medicine, chi, describes the “cosmic essence” of breathing, while Japanese spiritual and martial arts practices use the term ki to refer to this idea. (Learn more about why it’s important to understand the history of wellness practices from Asia .)

The majority of breathwork, regardless of where exactly the specific practice originated, aims to move some type of energy through the body. Most formal practices involve 20 minutes to several hours of sustained, rhythmic breathing techniques. People who practice breathwork describe feeling tingling sensations throughout their body, feelings of clarity, alertness, increased mind-body connection and catharsis. Co-creating a pranayama practice with a Shamama Co-Healer will open yourself to new states of bliss and peace.

What to Expect from a Shamama Co-Healer:

Someone who humbly provides safe space for you to be yourself and process your healing authentically.
Someone who will witness your journey without judgment, fear or ego.
Someone who knows that they are just a guide on the side and not a sage on the stage. They understand that they are not "healing you"; they are merely a vessel of purity, honesty and generosity.
Someone who is inclusive to all people.
Someone who will honor your body by not touching you physically, using scents/oils, administering plant medicine or burning incense/smudge with your explicit consent.
Someone who encourages you to honor your own body by finding breath and movement that serve you at that time with no preconceived agenda for your process.
Someone who roots all interactions in love and discernment.
Someone who is ethical, patient, compassionate, contemplative, courageous and truthful.
Someone who is above all present in this moment with an intention for everything to unfold for the higher good.
Someone who believes that peace on earth and peace within is not only possible, but is currently accessible through pure loving connection.

What to expect in a private session:
During an individual breathwork session, we start with discussing what you would like to get out of your session. We fully explain what we are doing before you are invited to lie on the mat. You are then guided to connect with your breath for up to an hour and 15 minutes. The type of breathing (active, conscious, diaphragmatic, mouth, nasal, tonal, etc.) will vary depending upon your needs. Breath is space; sometimes people need more and sometimes they need less. 
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Every session is unique (because you are unique!). You are fully “held” and seen as you breathe into your body and release whatever isn't serving you. Emotions can come up, the body may need to move, you may notice temperature changes or other changes in your body--and you may even go on a spiritual journey. Everything will happen for your higher good (for the higher good of all creation in fact).
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Shamama breathwork facilitators are trained in breathwork as well as somatic, ancient and creative healing practices. We use our instincts, intuition and information from Spirit in all we do. We may use a variety of tools and methods, such as:  drumming, creative expression, rattle, toning, chanting, sound, rocking and healing touch.
 
By releasing trauma and emotions stored in the body, clarity and a new sense of freedom is attained. You can see things in your life for what they really are. Old beliefs will fall away, and you are empowered to change your life, one breath at a time.
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We ensure that you process the session and are grounded and centered before you depart for your further integration at home. More information about private sessions.

Are you curious about breathwork but not yet sure about a one-on-one session? Then come and experience group breathwork.
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What to expect in a group session:
You are always warmly greeted upon arrival. We begin in circle to introduce the process, answer any questions, and are shown a few breathwork techniques you may choose to use. We also will explain what you may experience in your journey. We usually have a healing "medicine" such as herbal tea, cacao, a homemade tincture or an infused oil.  Everything we do is ALWAYS optional. That's the Shamama way.
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To open you up to the experience, we do an active meditation, using movement or sound, before being invited to lie on a mat. You are guided through the process with music, drumming, and healing touch to support your nervous system. As the group is small--no more than five participants  per facilitator--we are always close by to provide individual support  and encouragement on your breathwork journey. 
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Listening to others breathe and release often helps participants to feel safe to do so themselves. There is a powerful dynamic and energy to group breathwork that deeply supports powerful healing and transformation.

Question 2

What can I expect at one of Michele's private breathwork sessions?

Accepted Answer

Michele offers private breathwork to individuals, couples, or families. These can be held in our Grand Rapids studio or another venue of your choosing. We also offer online or phone sessions.
 
For in person sessions:
Preparation: Please refrain from mind-altering substances (alcohol, cannabis, etc.) at least 24 hours prior to the session. Eat lightly about 2 hours before and bring a water bottle. Wear comfortable clothing and no tight/restrictive items (belts, watches, bras, etc). We will provide the rest (you will receive a new eye pillow to keep for future visits!)
We begin with an assessment of your needs and whether you are tolerant of essential oils and touch.
(When Michele visits you (rather than our studio), we smudge/clear/bless the premises prior to our session. The effects of the clearing of both and your environment is palpable and sustained!
We may begin the session with some gross body movement (qi gong, yoga, dance, etc.)
Michele will then settle you in with blankets, bolsters, pillows, and an eye pillow and ensure that you are comfortable.
Michele may use any combination of candles/oil lamps, essential oils, stones and crystals to facilitate a healthy vibration around, and in, your body. 
Michele will use a custom playlist created just for you as well as drumming, sound bowls, rattles, chimes, and/or musical instruments to facilitate your breathwork.
Michele will coach you as you first ground yourself with conscious breathing then do your "breathwork". During this time, she will intuitively apply oils, stones, and touch. 
After your breathwork, you return to natural breathing. 
To conclude the breathing portion, Michele will apply "grounding oil" and apply touch and/or have you hold on to rocks. This is a sensitive time of re-entry into the present moment. 
We will then discuss your somatic/emotional/spiritual experiences and use our intuition to assist you in finding clarity and healing around these as you go forth.  
Michele will advise you regarding best practices for self-compassion and after-care.
You will receive a follow-up email with custom playlist, pay link and any additional information that Michele continues to receive after the session is done.
Note: sessions are two hours long, but may last longer and you may want to allow for plenty of time for integration afterwards as well. 
For online sessions, we send you an email with preparation guidelines.  We ask that you be able to prop your device up in a way so that we can see the side of your body while you breathe (from eyes to pelvis). We perform remote reiki as you listen to the piped in music.  Virtual sessions are are surprisingly effective!

Please note: Michele trains people in her methods, but all Shamama-trained facilitators are encouraged to use the tools and practices that work best for them. They all hold space in authentic, transformative and humble ways, however.

Question 3

Are you accessible and accommodating for people who are differently abled and/or have no experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, indeedy!  We hold most of our regular events in spaces that are physically accessible (with ramps/elevator and parking)--and we can accommodate hearing and vision impairments if you work with us in advance.

And if you aren't experienced with meditation, yoga, or breathwork, we understand because we were new once too!  You are welcome to chat with us ahead of time to get a sense of what to expect.

Question 4

Who should avoid group breathwork?

Accepted Answer

We encourage all illness-free people 11 and older to participate in group breathwork sessions, however, group breathwork is contraindicated for those who are pregnant or who have: severe asthma, severe heart disease, mental illness, epilepsy/history of seizures, acute physical injuries, severe diabetes.  We can, however, make accommodations for all people in private sessions.

Question 5

What do I bring and wear to group breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, blindfold/eye pillow, and water bottle. Please come about 10 minutes early so that you can set up your space and sign a waiver (if you haven't already). Pro tip: some people bring a sleeping bag if they don't have a yoga mat!  If we are meeting outside, you may want to bring some non-toxic bug repellant.  
 
Just wear comfy clothes and socks--no need for athletic or yoga apparel, but you could! Try to avoid belts and other constricting garments (like bras or belts). Some people wear jammies!  Hey, whatever works! 
 
We advise that you not partake in any mind-altering substances (i.e. alcohol, cannabis) 24 hours prior to breathwork.  You'll want to be a clear vessel for this stuff. :)

Question 6

Do you offer discounts?

Accepted Answer

We offer scholarships for those in need and most of our offerings are donation-based or just community gatherings that are free of charge.

Question 7

What does the word "Shamama" mean--and are you only for women?"

Accepted Answer

Michele explains it this way: "When I was in the seminal stage of creating Shamama in early 2016,I was driving down the road when the word came to me.  It was like a dream as I pulled over, searched the unfamiliar word on my smartphone and discovered that 'Shamama' is the name of the only female buddha, the 'Queen Mother'. (It is also a type of Persian perfume and a beautiful female Arabic name). The idea of the enlightened mother resonated with me as I believe that we could all benefit from embracing the feminine energy of the universe."  That being said, Shamama is inclusive of all sexes, genders, gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations. In fact, Michele wrote a blog post expounding on the merits of being inclusive to all! Read it here.

Question 8

You offer unique classes and services that I've never heard of, what gives?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do offer some pretty cool stuff, like: Intuitive Collaging, Chakra Dancing, Djembe Drumming, Art Journaling, Mindful Wine Tasting, Shamanic Journey Walks, "Journey Writing", BreathWork Meditation, Stich-a-Story (story-making with fiber), Manifesting Magic retreats, Forest Bathing, etc. We just find the world so interesting that we want to explore it with abandon!  We love tapping into our inner selves, turning on to new things to think about, and getting to know other curious cats! We invite you to join this warm, inclusive, and kinda funky community!

Question 9

Are you inclusive to everyone?

Accepted Answer

Hard YES! Shamama is inclusive to everyone regardless of sex, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, gender expression, political/religious beliefs and/or physical abilities! YOU ARE WECOME HERE! In fact, we are inclusive to people who may not have the ability to pay for our services. Please let us know how we can help you; that's why we are here!

Question 10

Do you donate to charity auctions--or otherwise perform free services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we regularly donate our services to local non-profits and churches. If you would like us to consider your cause or donate to your event, reach out to us! We also offer most of our services and events on a sliding scale because healing and growth should be accessible to all.

Question 11

Do you offer gift certificates?

Accepted Answer

Sure do! Click here!  
 
P.S. You give some pretty thoughtful gifts! 😀

Question 12

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We gather in person at our little studio: 3355 Eagle Park Dr. NE, Suite 108 Grand Rapids, Michigan, BUT we also hold our events in private/public venues and private homes all around Michigan. We like caring for, and growing with, people in real life; we truly like meeting people where they are (literally and figuratively).

We do offer online group and individual sessions as well; please check out our events page and our private sessions page.  We are inclusive to all people and most of our events are accessible to all people, but if they're not, we will make accommodations for your body--and your mind, and your spirit! We hope to see you soon.

Frequently asked questions