Breathe Into Balance: Exploring the Power of Breathwork with Kim Prichard
As the wellness world continues to expand, Chichester is welcoming more holistic approaches to health from Ayurvedic treatments to sound baths. In this new series, we meet local professionals offering these practices. We begin with breathwork a science-backed, profoundly effective tool for reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing overall wellbeing.
Meet Kim Prichard
Kim Prichard is a registered osteopath and certified Oxygen Advantage breathwork coach, based in Chichester. With over 30 years of experience working with the human body, Kim combines a deep understanding of anatomy and movement with cutting-edge breath science. Her passion lies in helping people reconnect with their bodies and discover the power of breathing well.
Q&A with Kim Prichard
Q: Kim, many of us take breathing for granted. Why should we pay more attention to how we breathe? We breathe all the time, but many of us arent breathing well. Conscious, functional breathing activates the bodys relaxation response, helping to reduce stress, regulate emotions, and improve focus. Its a free, accessible tool we all have and when used well, it can transform our physical, mental, and emotional health.
Q: Can you explain what functional breathing means? Functional breathing is breathing in a way that supports your bodys needs quietly, through the nose, and in sync with your natural rhythms. Many people unknowingly over-breathe or mouth-breathe, which can contribute to fatigue, anxiety, and poor sleep. Breathwork helps retrain the body for more efficient, restorative breathing.
Q: What drew you to breathwork personally and professionally? As an osteopath, Ive always been fascinated by how the body works physically, emotionally, and mentally. Over time, I noticed how much stress and unresolved trauma can impact our health. I discovered breathwork through my own journey, and it struck me as a powerful, simple way to support long-term healing and resilience.
Q: You trained in Oxygen Advantage. What sets this method apart? Patrick McKeowns Oxygen Advantage is a science-led, evidence-based approach that goes beyond trends. It teaches people how to breathe functionally that is, light, slow, deep nasal breathing to support performance, immunity, sleep and emotional balance. Its practical and rooted in physiology, which really resonates with me.
Q: How does your background in osteopathy influence your breathwork coaching? Osteopathy taught me to look at the body as a whole system. I understand how posture, musculoskeletal problems, emotional tension, and even past injuries affect breathing. That insight helps me assess how someone breathes and tailor techniques that support not just their breath, but their overall movement and health.
Q: What kinds of results have your clients experienced? Ive seen people improve their sleep, reduce anxiety and feel more energised and focused. Breathwork has helped children manage big emotions, supported athletes with performance, and brought relief to those with asthma or chronic breathlessness. It's truly transformative across all ages and stages.
Q: Is breathwork safe for everyone? For most people, yes, but if someone has a history of serious mental health conditions, seizures, or is on major medication, I recommend an initial consultation. The beauty of breathwork is how adaptable it is with the right guidance; it can be safely tailored to each person.
Q: What makes your approach to breathwork unique? Its the integration of science with empathy. I bring together my clinical background, up-to-date breath science, and a real respect for the human experience. Every session starts with listening to how you breathe, and to your story. Then we create a plan thats manageable, sustainable, and empowering.
Q: Who typically comes to you for breathwork support? Everyone from busy professionals to teenagers struggling with anxiety. Some are athletes wanting to optimise performance; others are living with chronic health conditions. What unites them is a desire to feel better, calmer, and more in control of their health.
Q: What can someone expect in their first session with you? We begin with a breath assessment and a relaxed conversation. I explain how your breathing patterns might be affecting you, and then we explore practical techniques you can use straight away. My aim is to support, not overwhelm just small changes that make a big difference.
Q: Why do you think now is the right time to be talking about breathwork? Because were all living in a state of near-constant stress. Breathwork is a tool weve had all along but now were realising its power to help us feel calmer, clearer, and more resilient. In a noisy world, coming back to the breath is a way to feel grounded and whole again.
Get Involved
Kim Prichards next online Introduction to Breathing class starts in June. To register or learn more about breathwork, visit www.kimprichard.co.uk or follow Kim on Instagram: @kimprichard_breathwork.
