In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with a dear friend and esteemed colleague ML Wahlfeldt. ML is a certified breath coach who believes in the transformative power of intentional breathing. She has helped countless students discover the intrinsic link between proper breathing, wellbeing, and a centered, mindful life. As you’ll hear in our conversation, an integral part of our bond is our shared belief in the potency of local voices. ML shares her belief in the power of meaningful conversations that reach the people who need those messages the most. ML shared a deeply personal story about her journey to discovering breath coaching, which was triggered by her father's battle with a stroke and the subsequent path of self-discovery and learning her father's predicament led her on. She explained the connection between oxygen, the brain, and overall well being that she learned during her father's health crisis. This kindled a spark in her, motivating her to dedicate her life to learning about neuroscience, the importance of oxygen for our bodies, and how breathwork can be transformative. In her quest for finding inner peace, ML started practicing breathing meditation and soon realized its potency in providing focus and calm. Breathing meditation, she discovered, was her best tool for maintaining a centered and present existence. ML shares the connection between diaphragmatic breathing and a reduction of cortisol levels in our bodies, which is pivotal for reducing stress and inflammation—the leading cause of numerous diseases. She asserted that diaphragmatic breathing not only reduces stress but also increases attention span and focus. The discussion then spiraled into the connection between breathing and our energy, our life force. ML emphasized that we are all energy, interconnected and engaging with each other's energy. Practicing breath work and being aware of our energy brought her a sense of connectivity to the universe and self-assurance that wasn't there before. Be open to practices that bring you peace and give you a deeper understanding of yourself. Let that guide you and provide you with the compass for maneuvering life’s journey. We talk about: [0:00] Intro[4:06] The ties between her upbringing and her work[13:00] Engaging your diaphragm and belly breathing[13:32] How to keep your lymph clear in your body[15:37] When and how we start to develop dysfunctional breathing patterns[20:00] The power of slowing down and being present in every moment[22:33] A brief breathing exercise you can try[26:30] What happens when we trust the universe[35:57] Undoing the narrative around the things that no longer serve usa[40:12] Favorite parts of her work and projects Resources mentioned in this episode: The Mystical Sisterhood Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mysticalsisterhood About the Host:  Maureen Spielman is the Founder of Mystical Sisterhood, a podcast dedicated to bringing more joy, healing and expansion to the world. She is a seasoned life coach who supports individuals through one-on-one coaching, groups and workshops.  Connect with ML  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intentionalbreath_mlFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLWahlfeldtYouTube: a href="https://intentionalbreathml.com/youtube" rel="noopener...