What is ŌRA?

ŌRA is a space for restoration and reconnection.

We bring together breathwork, mindful movement, nervous-system education and restorative practices to support a more aware and sustainable relationship with yourself and the way you move through everyday life.

Who are the practices for?

ŌRA is for anyone who wants to develop a deeper awareness of themselves and find practical ways to support their wellbeing.

You might be feeling stressed, overwhelmed or disconnected, looking for better ways to recover, wanting to reconnect with your body, or simply curious about exploring breathwork and other restorative practices.

There is no particular type of person you need to be, and you don't need to be “good” at meditation, yoga or breathwork. The practices are adapted to different needs, experiences and stages of life.

Do I need previous experience?

No.

All practices are guided and suitable for beginners unless otherwise specified. You don't need previous breathwork, yoga or meditation experience.

You will always be invited to work at your own pace and to listen to your body rather than trying to achieve a particular outcome.

What is Breathwork?

Breathwork is the intentional use of breathing patterns to influence how we experience our body, mind and state.

Different breathing techniques can have different effects. Some practices use slower, gentler breathing to support settling and recovery, while others use a more active, connected breath to explore sensations, emotions and deeper layers of experience.

At ŌRA, breathwork is not about forcing the breath or breathing as deeply as possible.

It is about understanding what a functional breath is, and developing awareness and learning how the breath can become a tool for listening, regulating and reconnecting.

What is the difference in between Recovery and Release Breathwork?

Recovery Breathwork uses gentle, slower breathing to support relaxation, nervous system regulation, recovery and everyday resilience.

Release Breathwork uses a more active, continuous breathing pattern to explore deeper layers of emotion, sensation and awareness.

Neither practice is “better” than the other. They simply serve different purposes, and what you need can change over time.

Are there contraindications?

Yes. Certain medical and psychological conditions may mean that some forms of breathwork are not appropriate, particularly more intensive practices.

Contraindications can vary depending on the specific technique and your individual circumstances.

If you are pregnant, recently postpartum, have a cardiovascular or respiratory condition, uncontrolled high blood pressure, a history of seizures, significant mental-health concerns, or another medical condition, please speak with us before booking. We may recommend a modified practice, additional medical clearance, or that you do not participate in a particular session.

If you are unsure, please ask before booking rather than waiting until the day of the session.

Is Breathwork suitable for everyone?

Not necessarily.

Breathwork can be a valuable practice, but different techniques place different demands on the body.

Your health, pregnancy status, medications and personal circumstances may affect which practices are appropriate for you.

Before participating, you will be asked to share any relevant health information and discuss any concerns.

If you have a medical or psychological condition, are taking medication, or are unsure whether a particular practice is appropriate for you, please let us know before attending.

What should I expect during a Breathwork session?

Sessions begin with guidance and an opportunity to arrive, check in with yourself and understand the practice.

You will then be guided through the breathing pattern and invited to notice what you experience without needing to analyse or control it. Depending on the practice, you may experience changes in physical sensations, emotions, thoughts, energy or awareness.

You remain in control throughout the session. You can always slow down, return to a natural breath, pause or stop if something does not feel right.

Sessions usually end with time to rest, integrate and notice how you feel before returning to your day.

How long are the sessions?

Session length depends on the practice and format.

Group breathwork classes are typically around 60 minutes, while private sessions and specialised support may be longer.

The duration and format will always be communicated clearly when you book.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a gentle Japanese practice centred around deep rest and energetic awareness.

During a session, the practitioner uses light touch or holds their hands just above the body, creating a quiet space for you to slow down, receive and reconnect with yourself.

At ŌRA, Reiki is approached as a practice of rest and receiving, an opportunity to step out of doing.

What happens during a Reiki session?

You remain fully clothed and lie comfortably on a treatment table while the practitioner works through a series of hand positions, either with light touch or with the hands held above the body.

There is nothing you need to do or achieve. You may notice sensations, emotions, thoughts or simply a deep sense of rest. Everyone experiences a session differently.

Do I need to believe in Reiki for it to work?

No particular belief or spiritual practice is required.

You can approach Reiki simply as a restorative experience. You are invited to remain curious about what you notice without needing to interpret or explain it.

Is Reiki suitable for everyone?

Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive practice and can generally be adapted to different needs and circumstances. However, it should not replace medical or psychological care. Quite the contrary, both practices support each other.

What should I wear for Reiki?

You remain fully clothed throughout the session. Comfortable, loose clothing is recommended so you can relax without restriction.

What is Yoga at ŌRA?

Yoga at ŌRA is a slow, intentional practice designed to support grounding, body awareness and presence.

Rather than focusing on performance or achieving a particular shape, the practice invites you to slow down, connect with your breath and listen to your body. Different styles are offered depending on your needs and stage of life, including Hatha, Yin and Prenatal Yoga.

What is Hatha Yoga?

Hatha Yoga is a steady and grounding practice that combines physical postures, breath awareness and moments of stillness.

Classes move at a considered pace, allowing time to explore each posture, connect with the breath and develop greater awareness of the body. It can be a good place to start if you are new to yoga, as well as for those looking for a balanced and grounding practice.

What is Yin Yoga?

Yin Yoga is a slower, more restorative practice where postures are generally held for longer periods with the support of props.

Rather than actively strengthening or flowing between postures, Yin invites you to soften, and stay with sensation. It can be a valuable practice for creating space in the body, cultivating stillness and turning attention inward.

What is Prenatal Yoga?

Prenatal Yoga is adapted to support the changing body and needs throughout pregnancy.

The practice focuses on gentle movement, breath awareness, mobility, grounding and creating a sense of connection with the body. Postures and sequences are adapted according to the stage of pregnancy, with an emphasis on comfort rather than intensity or performance.

No previous yoga experience is required.

If you are pregnant, please let us know when booking so the practice can be appropriately adapted to you.

Group classes, and events can be booked through the relevant booking link on the ŌRA website and WeChat miniprogram or by reaching out to us directly.

For private sessions, perinatal support and customised work, you can contact us directly to discuss what you are looking for and find the most appropriate format.

What should I bring?

For breathwork, bring anything that will help you feel comfortable lying down for an extended period.

A water bottle is useful, and you are welcome to bring an eye mask. or anything else that helps you settle.

For yoga or movement sessions, you may need your own mat depending on the studio or location.

For Reiki, a water bottle is useful and a notebook if you would like to take notes afterwards.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to breathe and move freely.

For breathwork, loose and comfortable clothing is ideal as you may spend much of the session lying down.

There is no particular dress code — the priority is that you feel comfortable and unrestricted.

There is a two-hour cancellation policy for all sessions.

Cancellations made at least two hours before the session can be rebooked, but sessions cannot be refunded.

Can I practice breathwork during pregnancy?

Yes, but not every breathwork practice is appropriate during pregnancy.

Pregnancy requires a different approach, and breathwork should be adapted to the stage of pregnancy and your individual circumstances. Perinatal sessions focus on gentle, supportive breathing and practices that encourage awareness, connection and relaxation for pregnancy and birth rather than intense breath retention or activating techniques.

If you are pregnant, please let us know before booking so we can make sure the practice is appropriate for you.

When can I return to breathwork postpartum?

There is no single timeline that applies to everyone. Returning to breathwork depends on your birth experience, physical recovery and how you are feeling postpartum.

Gentle breathing and awareness practices may be introduced earlier, while more active breathwork may require more time. We recommend discussing your individual circumstances before returning, particularly after a caesarean birth, significant complications or if you are experiencing ongoing physical or emotional difficulties.

What does postpartum support involve?

Postpartum support is a space to reconnect with yourself while your body, energy and daily life are changing.

Sessions may include gentle breathing, body awareness, grounding, pelvic floor awareness and gentle engagement, relaxation and rest.

The focus is not on getting your body “back” or rushing your recovery, but on supporting you in listening to your body and meeting yourself where you are.

The practice is adapted to your stage of recovery, your needs and what feels appropriate for you at that moment.

What types of organisations do you work with?

We work with organisations looking to bring practical wellbeing experiences into their workplaces, communities or learning environments.

This can include companies and teams, schools, studios, hospitality and lifestyle organisations, as well as private events and community groups.

Sessions can focus on breath awareness, stress management, nervous-system education, recovery, mindful movement or practical tools that participants can integrate into everyday life.

Can workshops be customised?

Yes.

Every organisation has a different culture, audience and set of needs, so workshops can be adapted accordingly.

We can tailor the content, format, duration and level of practice depending on whether the goal is team wellbeing, stress management, education, connection, recovery or a specific event.

Sessions can be delivered as one-off workshops, ongoing programmes or integrated into wider wellbeing initiatives.

If you are interested in creating a workshop or certified training for your organisation, school or team, get in touch to discuss your needs.

Yes. Through Breathwork Asia, the training and certification arm founded by Julie, ŌRA offers educational and experiential trainings for organisations, educators and professionals who want to develop a deeper understanding of breath, nervous-system awareness and practical wellbeing practices.

Training can range from introductory workshops to more structured programmes and professional trainings, depending on the audience, objectives and level of experience.

If you are interested in bringing a training to your organisation, school or team, get in touch to discuss your needs.