MJ Renshaw: Breathe to Heal: Breathwork, Emotions & Real Connection with MJ | DSH #1518

On this episode of Digital Social Hour, MJ breaks down the science-meets-spirit of breathwork—how simple nasal breathing and CO₂ tolerance work can calm anxiety, boost sleep, and shift you from fight-or-flight into true rest-and-digest. We dig into mouth taping, Wim Hof vs. gentle parasympathetic breaths, and why most of us are unknowingly hyperventilating our way into stress. We also go deep on emotional suppression, men’s loneliness, trauma release (crying is chemistry!), community, Blue Zones, purpose, and why connection often beats “biohacks.” Plus: psychedelics vs. breathwork, past-life curiosities, animal-assisted healing, and practical ways to start a daily breath practice. CHAPTER: 0:00 – Intro: why breathwork is the most underrated tool 2:18 – How breathing shifts anxiety & sleep (parasympathetic basics) 4:45 – Nose vs. mouth: 6-in/6-out and why mouth taping helps 7:22 – CO₂ tolerance, breath holds, and the “bolt score” 10:15 – Wim Hof style vs. gentle calming protocols (when to use which) 13:30 – Trauma, hyperventilation & getting “stuck” in stress 16:42 – MJ’s story: grief, shutdown, and first big breathwork releases 21:10 – Crying as detox: cortisol, immunity & living longer 24:58 – Relationships, connection, and the men’s loneliness epidemic 29:05 – Biohacks vs. nature: why community sometimes beats gadgets 33:12 – Purpose over productivity: success without self-destruct 37:48 – Science + spirituality can (and should) coexist 41:20 – Psychedelics, breathwork, and integration 45:36 – Past lives, kids’ recall, déjà vu & open-minded science 50:02 – Animals that heal: dogs, trees, and horse therapy 54:11 – Grief work, safety in the nervous system, night terrors 58:40 – Practical breath routines you can start today 1:02:15 – Where to find MJ, her book & breathwork resources APPLY TO BE ON THE PODCAST: https://www.digitalsocialhour.com/application BUSINESS INQUIRIES/SPONSORS: jenna@digitalsocialhour.com GUEST: MJ Renshaw https://www.instagram.com/beingmethodbreathwork/ SPONSORS: THERASAGE: https://therasage.com/ LISTEN ON: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/digital-social-hour/id1676846015 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jn7LXarRlI8Hc0GtTn759 Sean Kelly Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmikekelly/ The views and opinions expressed by guests on Digital Social Hour are solely those of the individuals appearing on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the host, Sean Kelly, or the Digital Social Hour team. While we encourage open and honest conversations, Sean Kelly is not legally responsible for any statements, claims, or opinions made by guests during the show. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and consult professionals for advice where appropriate. Content on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Digital Social Hour works with participants in sponsored media and stays compliant with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations regarding sponsored media. #ad We have done our best to present the facts as we see them, however, we make no guarantees or promises regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. In addition, the views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the producers of this program. #DigitalSocialHour #Breathwork #EmotionalHealth #MentalFitness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .