Why do some people freeze or panic under pressure, while others access clarity, calm, and even bliss? In this soul-expanding episode of The Catherine Plano Podcast, breathwork pioneer and best-selling author Dan Brulé shares how the simple act of breathing—done consciously—can rival the effects of psychedelics for emotional healing, energy regulation, and spiritual awakening. From training elite military personnel and Olympic athletes to guiding people into non-ordinary states of consciousness, Dan has dedicated his life to helping others use their breath as a tool for transformation. And in this conversation, he reveals just how accessible—and profound—this inner technology really is. This isn’t just a conversation about calming down or improving your fitness. It’s a masterclass in how breath can unlock emotional release, heal trauma, and expand consciousness—all without substances, rituals, or complicated techniques. Dan explores the breath as our first and last connection to life, the bridge between the conscious and subconscious mind, and the key to healing everything from childhood imprints to chronic stress. He also shares the origin of his fascination with breath—from a biblical story in Catholic school to near-death experiences and working with trauma survivors. Through grounded storytelling, scientific insights, and spiritual wisdom, Dan reveals: How breathwork mimics the effects of psychedelics—without substances or side effects Why your first breath at birth could be shaping your stress patterns today The real reason we unconsciously hold our breath—and how it sabotages our health and joy How to read your breath like a mirror of your emotional and energetic state The practice of “cyclical sighing”—and why it outperforms most meditation techniques Why nasal breathing is critical for nervous system health, sleep, and longevity A simple 3-step formula to transform any moment through awareness, relaxation, and energy Dan also guides us through powerful yet accessible exercises designed to increase mindfulness, release trauma from the body, and ignite the inner healer within. Whether you’re navigating burnout, seeking spiritual expansion, or simply looking for a natural way to reconnect to yourself, this episode will leave you breathing differently. If you’ve ever wondered whether healing had to be hard or whether awakening required a substance, this conversation will open a new portal of possibility. About Dan Brulé Dan Brulé is a modern-day teacher, healer, and the world’s foremost expert in breathwork. A former U.S. Navy medical deep-sea diver and rescue specialist, Dan has trained over 300,000 people in 73 countries to use the breath for self-healing, peak performance, and spiritual growth. His clients include elite warriors, medical professionals, Olympic athletes, corporate leaders, and transformational luminaries such as Tony Robbins. He is the founder of One Sky International and author of Just Breathe: Master Breathwork for Success in Life, Love, Business and Beyond. Dan is one of the original certified Rebirthers, a master of Prana Yoga and Qigong, and a global leader of the Spiritual Breathing movement. Golden Nuggets From Dan Brulé Here are Dan’s 3 practical breathwork tools you can try today: 1⃣ Breath Awareness Practice: To increase self-awareness, mindfulness, and emotional presence. 2⃣ Breath for Relaxation: To release tension, reduce anxiety, and regulate your nervous system. 3⃣ Breath for Energy: To awaken aliveness, increase focus, and tap into your inner power. Watch the Full Conversation Now on YouTube Connect with Dan Brulé Website: www.breathmastery.com Book: Just Breathe on Amazon YouTube: @Breathmastery Instagram: @danbruleofficial Facebook: Dan Brulé Breathmastery