Breathwork Certification at YOGATOWN
This certification is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge, embodiment, and skillset required to confidently lead 1:1 and group breathwork sessions. Rooted in science, somatics, and sensory facilitation, this training blends breath physiology, nervous system education, and immersive experiential practice with tools for professional facilitation and business building.
Intended for:
Yoga teachers
Coaches and trainers
Wellness practitioners
Therapists and bodyworkers
Anyone passionate in learning more about breath as a tool for nervous system regulation and transformation
Curriculum Breakdown:
This hybrid program includes three in-person weekends, scheduled once per month, complemented by six two-hour online sessions held between the in-person modules. The format is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a busy lifestyle.
Three in person weekends:
Friday Sept 26 (5pm - 9pm), Sat & Sun 27 & 28th (9am - 4:30pm)
Friday Oct 24 (5pm - 9pm), Sat & Sun 25 & 26th (9am - 4:30pm)
Sat & Sun Nov 22 & 23rd (9am - 4:30pm)
Six online calls:
Sunday’s Oct 5, 12, 19th, Nov 2, 9, 16th
9am - 11am
Calls will be recorded and shared
Weekend 1: Foundations of Functional Breath
Breath mechanics, nervous system regulation
Anatomy, CO₂ tolerance, biochemistry
Core techniques: nasal breathing, cadence, sigh, holds
Somatic connection, assessments, cueing
Breathwork demos, self-reflection, practice in pairs
Weekend 2: Language, Structure & Facilitation
Session formats (25 to 60 min),
Group vs 1:1 structure
Building breath sessions (theme, arc, integration)
Practice teaching (10–20 min), group feedback
Guided breath experiences & reflection circles
Weekend 3: Group Facilitation & Class Design
Facilitating in group environments: presence, posture, pacing
Reading the room: regulation cues, emotional release awareness
Class building: designing 4-week breath series and themed sessions
Sequencing: warm-up, main breath technique, integration
Practice leading longer sessions (30–45 mins) with real-time feedback
Use of voice, rhythm, and energy to guide group experience
Observation and reflection: refining your unique facilitation style
Sunday Online Calls
Each of these online sessions will include a guided group breath practice.
Creating Sensory & Inclusive Breath Spaces
Integration & Post-Session Support - Grounding, closing techniques, journaling prompts, and emotional regulation after breathwork.
Ethics, Scope of Practice & Trauma-Aware Facilitation
Designing Your 4-Week Series or Class Offerings
Branding, Writing Your Bio & Communicating Your Work
Marketing with Integrity & Preparing to Launch
Practicum & Facilitator Development
Completion of 2 x Case Studies provided by Susan, documenting client intake, session design and what was observed
2 Videos of facilitation - one 1:1 breath session and one group session (3 or more people). (Length 45 - 60min for each video)
Personalized feedback will be shared upon completion of videos and case studies
Certification Requirements:
Full attendance for all training weekends and online calls
6 Hours minimum of Observation & Participation in Breath Classes
Minimum 10 / 1:1 facilitated sessions (minimum 25 min in length, can be started after first weekend of in person learning)
Minimum 10 / group facilitated session (minimum 25 minutes in length, can be started after the first weekend of in person learning)
Submission of written case studies
Inclusions:
Comprehensive workbook
Free access Susan Benoit’s online platform of breathwork classes
Level 1 Functional Breath Facilitator Certification awarded upon successful completion of practicum and all course requirements
Certification and professional recognition issued through the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF) and the International Practitioner of Holistic Medicine (IPHM)
Location:
Yogatown Stittsville
Cost:
Early Bird Pricing $1895 (until Aug. 15th)
Regular Pricing $2195
About Susan:
Susan Benoit is a breathwork practitioner, wellness coach, and facilitator committed to helping people reconnect with their breath, body, and innate resilience. Drawing on her deep understanding of nervous system regulation, breath mechanics, and mindful movement, Susan weaves together science-based practices with intuitive guidance to create transformative and accessible experiences.
As the founder of Fearlessly Transform, she offers a range of sessions—from functional breath education to immersive journey-style breathwork—all anchored in safety, presence, and empowerment. Her work supports individuals in regulating stress, accessing emotional release, and cultivating a deeper sense of embodiment and self-trust.
Whether facilitating intimate small groups or leading breathwork for hundreds, Susan creates spaces that invite stillness, insight, and connection.
Aligned Together
Join Tarik and Susan for a transformative 1-day couples retreat designed to deepen your bond through mindful movement, breath, and presence. 🌿💫
🖤 What to Expect:
💪 Energizing Partner Workout – Move together, challenge each other, and build trust.
🌬 Restorative Breathwork – Ground yourselves and sync your energy through mindful breathing.
🍽 Catered Lunch – Nourish your bodies with a thoughtfully prepared meal.
🌬 Journey Partner Breathwork – Dive deeper into shared vulnerability and connection.
💞 Connection Activities – Engaging exercises to foster authentic communication and intimacy.
🔥❄ Intentional Sauna & Cold Plunge – Move through contrast therapy together, fostering resilience and open-hearted conversations.
This retreat is more than a day off—it's an investment in your relationship. Whether you're looking to reconnect, communicate more openly, or simply share a unique experience, Aligned Together will leave you feeling refreshed, aligned, and deeply connected. 💫
📍 Chelsea Athletica
🗓 March 23rd
⏰ 10am - 5pm
🎟 Limited spots available –
Let your breath guide you back to each other. 🖤✨
Winter Wellness Retreat
FRIDAY MARCH 7 – SUNDAY MARCH 9, 2025
Embark on a transformative journey like no other at the captivating Bloom Holistic Retreat, a haven nestled by a pristine lake. Join esteemed health and wellness experts, Tracy Billows and Susan Benoit, for an immersive weekend dedicated to igniting your inner healing power and revitalizing your entire being.
Breathwork & Contrast Therapy Certification (18 weeks)
Within this unique certification, you'll delve into the powerful world of Breathwork, cold exposure and heat therapy, uncovering the profound impact it can have on your physical, mental, and emotional health. By practicing a combination of specific breathing techniques and engaging in contrasting environments, you'll discover a path to ultimate rejuvenation and inner balance.
Winter Wellness Retreat (Copy)
FRIDAY MARCH 7 – SUNDAY MARCH 9, 2025
Embark on a transformative journey like no other at the captivating Bloom Holistic Retreat, a haven nestled by a pristine lake. Join esteemed health and wellness experts, Tracy Billows and Susan Benoit, for an immersive weekend dedicated to igniting your inner healing power and revitalizing your entire being.
Prepare to discover a newfound vitality within yourself as you push beyond your limits and step outside of your comfort zone. With Bloom Holistic Retreat as your luxurious sanctuary, located just 1.5-2 hours from Ottawa, you’ll find yourself surrounded by 681 acres of untouched boreal forest, creating a serene and enchanting backdrop for your wellness experience.
Indulge in exquisite accommodations that will make you feel right at home, complemented by farm-to-table vegetarian meals that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body. Immerse yourself in the spacious yoga room, boasting magnificent views and premium yoga props, where you can explore various styles of yoga, tailored to all levels.
But that’s just the beginning. Brace yourself for an array of healing modalities carefully curated to awaken and transform you on every level. Dive into the heart-pounding world of guided Breathwork and Cold Plunge classes, where you’ll be guided and supported every step of the way, unveiling your hidden strength and capabilities. Experience the invigorating rejuvenation of Guided Contrast Therapy, alternating between soothing saunas and refreshing cold plunges.
Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, or simply unwind with peaceful moments of relaxation, curled up with a book by the warm embrace of a crackling fire. Connect with like-minded individuals, fostering both new and old friendships, as you embrace the true essence of community.
Further enhance your experience by embracing a digital detox, giving yourself the freedom to unplug and reconnect with the present moment on your own terms. Our full agenda is thoughtfully designed with your well-being in mind, ensuring that you have the autonomy to participate in as much or as little as your heart desires.
Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, where the boundaries of your potential will be challenged, and the vibrant, revitalized version of yourself will shine. Bloom Holistic Retreat awaits, ready to unlock the wellness enthusiast within you.
Check in: 4pm Friday
Check out: 12pm Sunday, although you are welcome to stay and enjoy the property.
March 1st you will be emailed directions, full weekend itinerary, a list of what to bring, and how best to prepare to get the most out of your experience.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
All rooms have their own private ensuite bath. Rooms are first come, first serve.
Bunk Room: a dorm style room with 4 beds $795 per person +hst
Lower level: King bed (single occupancy) $1395 +hst
Lower level: 2 Twin beds (double occupancy) $895 per person +hst
Upper level: Queen bed (single occupancy) $1495 +hst
Upper level: 2 Twin beds (double occupancy) $995 per person +hst
SAMPLE ITINERARY (TBC):
7am Light Breakfast
8am – Guided Breathwork & Cold plunge class
10am Yoga Flow
12pm Lunch
2pm Guided Contrast Therapy (breathwork, cycling between sauna / lake)
6pm Dinner
8pm Slow Flow & Yin Yoga
Bookings will be made through our travel partner Wassermann Retreats, an affiliate of Direct Travel, 93 Main Street S, Georgetown, ON, L7G 3E5, phone: 905-873-2000 ext. 1232, cwassermann@dt.com, TICO 50023504
Email Cathy and book your spot TODAY! cwassermann@dt.com,
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Full payment is due at the time of booking
Cancellations can be made up to Feb. 8th, less a $500 fee.
Cancellations after Feb. 8th are not refundable, but payment is transferable if you find someone to take your place.
Questions? Please email info@susanrbenoit.com
MORE ABOUT TRACY BILLOWS & SUSAN BENOIT
Susan is a certified strength and conditioning coach, breath coach, and cold exposure guide. She has 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. She got into breath work and cold exposure after having open heart surgery and struggling with anxiety and depression and now guides breath work and cold exposure classes in Ottawa and the surrounding areas.
Susan is passionate about inspiring others to discover their greatness and to have them understand that their environment does not have to dictate who they want to be. She leads with an open heart, and encourage those around her to expand their personal limits and explore what it means to have a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
Tracy can best be described as a health enthusiast. Yoga of course is a huge part of Tracy’s life – she’s been a devoted yoga student for over 25 years and has been teaching for 15.
Tracy is equally passionate about many other things wellness-related. From cold plunges, to holistic nutrition, to mindset, to endurance sports, she is constantly pushing her limits, learning and trying new things to help keep her strong and healthy on all levels. It brings Tracy so much joy to share all of these passions with others, so they too can experience how it feels to truly feel alive.
TESTIMONIALS:
This was a wonderful format for a wellness retreat so well rounded – Chantal
This was my first yoga retreat. It was perfect. I was supported and learned a lot. I met a fantastic and diverse group of people. The instruction, location and amenities were amazing. Oh, and the food… the chef knocked it out of the park at every meal. I can’t wait for the next one. – Catherine
This Wellness Retreat was an experience like no other I have ever had. The setting was picturesque, surrounded by nature and so peaceful. The facilitators were supportive and knowledgeable about the benefits of breathwork, yoga and cold exposure. From the time we arrived I felt comfortable. Both Susan and Tracy are passionate about their practices and eager to share with others. Taking a dip in a cold lake in November was not something I would have believed I would be able to do, but wth the support of Susan and Tracy and camaraderie of the entire group I was able to participate in each dip! If you’re thinking of trying something new I couldn’t recommend a more supportive duo. It was a weekend I will never forget. – Mandala