In this reflective episode of 5 Minutes of Peace, choreographer and educator Alexandra Beller guides us through a simple yet profound breathing practice rooted in awareness, not control.

Rather than “holding” the breath, Alexandra invites us to pause at the top of the inhale and the bottom of the exhale, waiting until the body naturally asks for the next breath. In these quiet, in-between spaces, something deeper begins to emerge — sensation, awareness, even insight.

This practice highlights breath as a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind, offering an embodied way to access creativity, release habitual patterns, and reconnect with inner rhythm.

Listeners are encouraged to explore these pauses as portals — places where inspiration (literally, “inhalation”) can arise when we soften effort and begin to listen.

Key Takeaways

• Pause, don’t force — allow the body to guide the rhythm of breath

• The spaces between breaths are powerful — moments of insight and awareness often arise there

• Breath connects mind and body — linking conscious choice with unconscious processes

• Creativity is natural — our first form of creativity is problem-solving

• Notice and release habits — breath can help us interrupt patterns that no longer serve us

Memorable Moment

“It’s less about control and more about listening for the body to say, I need something… or I am ready to let go of something.”

About our Guest

Alexandra Beller (MFA, CMA) is a choreographer, director, and educator, and a former member of the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company. As Artistic Director of Alexandra Beller/Dances, she has created over 40 dance theater works internationally.

Her work blends somatic practice, creative inquiry, and embodied awareness, with teaching experience spanning Princeton University, the Laban Institute, and global residencies. Alexandra is currently authoring two upcoming books: The Embodied Conductor and The Anatomy of Art.

Learn More

Explore Alexandra’s work, classes, and resources at alexandrabellerdances.org

Closing Reflection

Take a breath…and wait. In the quiet space before the next inhale, what is your body ready to receive?