Frequently asked questions.

About conscious connected breathwork.

What is conscious connected breathwork?

Conscious connected breathwork is an active breathing practice that uses a continuous, circular breathing pattern with no pause between the inhale and exhale. The active breathing phase can create temporary physiological activation and noticeable physical or emotional sensations. As the breath slows and the body settles, the practice may support greater nervous-system regulation and access to the parasympathetic state associated with rest and recovery.

Everything you need to know about conscious connected breathwork, what to expect in a session and how Stillwater State works. If your question isn't answered here, send it to breathe@stillwaterstate.ca

What is somatic breathwork?

Somatic breathwork is a broad term for breath-based practices that bring attention to the body and physical sensations. Conscious connected breathwork is somatic because it uses the breath as a body-based point of entry. You don’t need to think, analyze or explain every part of your experience for it to be meaningful.

How is breathwork different from therapy?

Breathwork isn't therapy. Therapy is a clinical service provided by qualified, regulated or licensed professionals. Conscious connected breathwork is a non-clinical somatic wellness practice that may support nervous-system regulation and self-awareness. It can complement therapy but doesn't replace it. Stillwater State doesn't assess, diagnose or treat mental health conditions or interpret your experience.

Safety and contraindications.

Is conscious connected breathwork safe?

Many healthy adults can participate safely in conscious connected breathwork, but it is an active practice and isn't appropriate for everyone. Deeper, faster breathing can temporarily change carbon dioxide levels and may cause tingling, light-headedness, muscle tightening, changes in heart rate or emotional intensity. Every session includes screening, informed consent and the option to slow, pause or stop. Please review the contraindications below before booking.

Who should not do breathwork?

Please consult your healthcare provider before participating if you have any of the following:

• Cardiovascular disease, angina or history of heart attack;

• Unmanaged high blood pressure;

• Aneurysm;

• Glaucoma or retinal detachment;

• Seizure disorders or epilepsy;

• Severe psychiatric conditions, including active psychosis;

• Recent significant physical injury or surgery; and

• Pregnancy.

If you're in an active mental health crisis, breathwork isn't the appropriate service. Please contact a crisis resource or regulated mental health professional.

I'm currently in therapy. Can I still do breathwork?

Yes. Breathwork can complement therapeutic work effectively. If you're working with a therapist, I'll simply ask that you let them know you're adding conscious connected breathwork to your practice.

I'm pregnant. Can I participate?

Please consult your healthcare provider before participating in breathwork during pregnancy.

What to expect in a session.

What does conscious connected breathwork feel like?

Experiences vary from person to person and session to session. Physical sensations may include tingling, warmth, changes in temperature, tightness or release in the hands, feet or jaw, a dry mouth or throat and shifts in emotion. Some people feel a great deal. Some feel very little. Both are completely valid experiences.

What is tetany?

During active breathwork, some people may experience tingling, numbness or involuntary muscle tightening, particularly in the hands, feet, jaw or face. Breathwork practitioners often refer to these sensations as tetany. They can occur when deeper or faster breathing lowers carbon dioxide levels. The sensations typically ease as the breath slows. If participants feel intense, we’ll soften or pause the breath. You’ll never be asked to push through them.

What if I don't feel anything?

A quiet session isn't a failed session. Stillness, calm and subtle sensations are all valid. No specific physical sensation or emotional release is required. You don’t need to perform or force a result.

Can I stop during a session?

Yes. At any point. You are always in control of your own experience. You can slow your breath, switch to nose breathing or stop entirely at any time. I will remind you of this before every session begins and through gentle cues throughout your session.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Dress in layers as body temperature can shift during the session.

Sessions and booking.

How long is a session?

Private 1:1 and partner sessions are 75 minutes. Small-group and corporate sessions begin at 90 minutes and may vary depending on the format.

How many sessions do I need?

There's no prescribed number. Some people book a single session, while others choose to build an ongoing practice. Frequency depends on your goals, experience and current capacity.

Do I need prior experience with breathwork?

No. Sessions are appropriate for complete beginners. I'll walk you through the technique, what to expect and how to pace yourself before we begin.

How is a virtual session different from in-person?

Virtual sessions follow the same core structure as in-person sessions and are adapted for remote facilitation. Before your first virtual session, I’ll send a preparation guide to help you create a private, comfortable environment in your own space.

Do I need to be working with a therapist to book?

No. A therapist isn't a prerequisite for breathwork. If you’re currently in therapy, I ask that you let your therapist know you’re adding an active breathwork practice.

What is your cancellation policy?

Sessions may be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 48 hours' notice. Cancellations made within this timeframe are eligible for a full refund or rescheduling, subject to availability.

Cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice and no-shows are non-refundable. To cancel or reschedule, please contact breathe@stillwaterstate.com directly.

Stillwater State's Cancellation Policy.

About Stillwater State.

Who facilitates sessions at Stillwater State?

All sessions are facilitated by Xania Khan, founder of Stillwater State. Xania is a certified Conscious Connected Breathwork facilitator and has completed Mental Health First Aid training. She's currently completing Wilfrid Laurier University’s Trauma Certificate through the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development. She brings more than 20 years of corporate leadership experience to her practice.

Is Stillwater State a therapy practice?

No. Stillwater State is a breathwork and somatic wellness practice. It doesn't provide medical care, psychotherapy or mental health treatment. Sessions are offered for general wellness purposes only. Stillwater State doesn't assess, diagnose or treat mental health or medical conditions. If you need clinical support, please contact an appropriate regulated healthcare professional.

Is Stillwater State LGBTQ+ affirming?

Yes. Stillwater State is an inclusive, LGBTQ+ affirming practice. All identities, relationships and backgrounds are welcome. Every session is consent-based and facilitated without judgment. Private 1:1 sessions are confidential. Partner and group participants are asked to respect one another’s privacy.

How does trauma awareness shape your sessions?

I facilitate from a trauma-aware framework informed by my ongoing Trauma Certificate coursework through Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Social Work Professional Development. In practice, every session prioritizes choice, consent, pacing, screening and client agency. Stillwater State doesn't provide clinical trauma treatment, psychotherapy or PTSD management.

Where are sessions held?

In-person sessions are held in Toronto. Virtual sessions are available to clients anywhere in the world.