Feedback from our Breath, Body, Mind Pilot Project (February – June 2024)

The project was available in different locations across York, as well as online. It was generously funded by York Belfrey’s Social Action Grant Programme. York Carers Centre partnered with us to run it.

Feedback in statistics:

• 100% of participants thought the exercises could help them in their caring role.
• 100% said the exercises helped reduce stress and/or anxiety during the sessions
• 100% gave it 9/10 or 10/10 for usefulness.
• 100% would recommend to other care partners.
• 90% said they practised Breath, Body, Mind exercises at home during the workshop series.
• Improving delivery: e.g. suggestions like having written information about the why of breathing and about how to do the exercises.

In relation to their caring role, participants said the exercises helped in the following ways: 

• “It has taught me how helpful being aware of breathing can be in stressful situations.”
• “To become more patient and tolerant.”
• “The HA breath is such an easy thing to do when stressed or angry. The coherent [breathing] helps me relax and sleep.”
• “Thanks to Justin he gave me the tools and know how to slow and calm my breathing when things get too much. I loved attending and by week 4, I understood and learnt how to really slow things down within my body and mind. Fab!”

In terms of usefulness, participants commented

• “By focusing your mind on your breathing, it calms and de-stresses.”
• “I will follow the breathing videos/exercises in the future to stay calmer.”
• “Good focus for the week. Very calming and relaxing.”
• “Having the handout to remind me. It would be great to be on a simple mailing list to remember to do the practices- a simple ‘breathe email.'”
• “A wonderful holistic experience that let me reflect on my self care, as a carer and transform the way I deal with stressful and unsettling situations.
• “Techniques to calm by using the breath. Time out for self. I feel there are techniques that can be used to relax and reduce stress.”

In relation to practicing Breath, Body, Mind at home, participants said:

• “Having attended the course and learned about breath, body, mind it slowly becomes a natural exercise to do at home.”
• “I tried to make time to fit in two small sessions each day at home. First thing in the morning and before going to sleep.”
• “Not at a set time but used when I had some spare time, especially in the morning and evening.”
• “Only a few times. I need reminders (email reminders).”
• “After first session my sleep was poor and I noticed my breathing was rapid. Used breathing techniques to slow breath and calm down. I think the sessions helped my self awareness.”
• “[I practised] mainly in the evenings in the garden when I was able to spend some time to myself.”

Other general comments

• “It was extremely beneficial to me”
• “Helped me with ways of coping in very stressful situations”
• “It would be beneficial if group could continue on a monthly basis.”
• “Regular sessions definitely, loved it!”
• “Facilitator was great; sessions very organised in a really enabling way; venue was great with access to lovely garden. All good!”