In this transformative episode of the Pachamama School Podcast, host Xochitl Kusikuy Ashe reconnects with her dear friend and former operations manager, Brittany Lillegard, for an intimate exploration of breathwork as a compass for navigating life's constant changes. As an international breath facilitator and founder of MoveBreath, Brittany shares her decade-long journey from panic attacks in Chicago to becoming a modern nomad spreading breathwork wisdom across North America.
Together, they dive deep into the science and spirituality of breathwork - exploring how conscious breathing can quiet the modern mind, connect us to spirit, and guide us toward authentic living. Brittany reveals the pivotal moment when her teacher Dr. Perry Nickelston said, "If you can't breathe somewhere, you don't belong there" - wisdom that led her to sell everything and embark on a nomadic journey that continues today.
This conversation weaves through practical breathwork techniques, the psychology of altered states, and the profound community wisdom that emerges from van life culture.
Whether you're curious about breathwork, considering a nomadic lifestyle, or seeking tools for personal transformation, this episode provides both scientific understanding and deeply practical wisdom for using your breath as life's most reliable compass.
Connect with Brittany:
Website: MoveBreath.com
Instagram: @brittanylillegard
Upcoming MoveBreath Facilitator Training (details available on website)
Connect with Xochitl:
Website: xochitlashe.com
Instagram & Facebook: @xochitlashe
About Brittany: Brittany Lillegard is an international breath facilitator and founder of MoveBreath. She has a decade of training under renowned teachers such as Dr. Perry Nickelston, Wim Hof, and Dan Brulé, alongside immersive study in India. Known for her approachable, playful, and trauma-informed teaching style, Brittany has shared her work at venues including the Esalen Institute, Sisters in Psychedelic Conference, LA Psychedelic Conference, and Unison Festival. Breathwork has been pivotal in her own healing from depression and anxiety, guiding her life as both a compass and a source of inspiration. A modern nomad, Brittany travels North America in her truck, bringing accessible and transformative breathwork experiences to communities far and wide.
Thank you to our Sponsors:
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Show Notes:
Chapters
(01:12) Opening Sacred Space and Guest Introduction
(01:59) Reunion of Dear Friends and Collaborators
(05:47) Brittany's Journey into Breathwork: From Panic to Purpose
(09:15) Understanding Breath: Reconnection vs. Teaching "Correct" Breathing
(12:23) Why Breathwork is Psychedelic: The Science Behind Altered States
(17:22) Breath as Compass: Navigating Life's Micro and Macro Challenges
(22:34) Ten Years of Nomadic Living: From Backpack to Van Life (28:54) The Four-Box Revelation: Learning to Live with Less (34:45) Forced Resilience: How Nomadic Life Builds Problem-Solving Skills
(38:57) Community Without Geography: Building Deep Connections on the Road
(44:32) Applying Van Life Community Wisdom to City Living (48:32) Beyond Instagram Breathwork: Simple Practices for Daily Life
(52:57) The MoveBreath Facilitator Training: Empowering Others
(55:03) Final Wisdom: You Can't Get Better in the Same Environment You Got Sick In
(58:26) Closing Gratitude and Connection Information