Frequently Asked Questions
~What IS PRESENCE Breathwork and Movement Arts? Are you a Yoga studio? I see Yoga classes, Breathwork, Meditation, Ecstatic Dance, Shamanic Medicine Practices, Sound Healing, Tantra, women’s groups and so much more?!! This is a great question and the answer continues to evolve. We are all of this and more!!! We are creating a mystery school-merging many traditions right here in Buffalo, NY. Our intention is create and hold an authentic space for community to connect and evolve together. For growth, healing, magic, love, and elevation. For many to gather and share their unique gifts, presence, wisdom and light…..to explore the depth of our body’s, minds and hearts. To play and remember our true nature. It sounds a bit airy fairy… (and maybe it is a little)… but its also grounded, authentic, and simple.
~Is Breathwork safe? Breathwork is generally considered safe and can offer many benefits when done correctly and under the right circumstances. That said- some of the more dynamic, faster breathing patterns and longer holds can be contraindicated for people with cardiovascular diseases, uncontrolled hypertension, COPD, Asthma, epilepsy, glaucoma, detached retinas, pregnancy, aneurysms and severe psychiatric conditions. Please let your teacher know if you have any of these issues or other other issues and she can discuss other options for you in the practice. The best advice is follow your own body and let it show you the way.
~How do I contact you? Text/ Call/ Email/ Instagram/ Facebook/ send a Raven/ smoke signals if wind is blowing the right direction.
~Where are you located? Near the intersection of Clinton and Bailey- 1500 Clinton Ave #177 Suite 203 in Niagara Frontier Food Terminal in South Buffalo. Maps may direct you to a weird place with the address. Look for Chateau Buffalo and M&T Bank. We are up stairs from Chateau Buffalo. Its best to park near M&T bank and look for the colorful mural on the dock. Enter door 177 and head up the stairs. You might see SAIRA creative in the windows. She is our neighbor and will shimmer your hair for you. :-) If you get lost please give us a call!
~How do I prepare for class? What should I bring? Best to come on an empty-ish stomach and not eat a big meal before class. Wear comfy clothes, bring a Yoga mat, favorite meditation cushion (if you have one) and an open mind.. If you have nothing-we some of everything for you to borrow. We also encourage refection and introspection so feel free to bring a journal and hang out after class and reflect. We have water, tea, blankets, and lots of love. There’s a bathroom down the hall but no showers.
~I am nervous, skeptical, and unsure about these classes. Should I try it out? PROBABLY YES! ….We are a supportive, judgment free community and will do all we can to make you feel comfortable and welcome. We aim for inclusivity and creating an authentic loving space where you feel at home. We aren’t about fancy clothes, social media, or doing things because of the image it portrays. We want you to live in your raw beautifully scarred realness… and we aim to do the same. So show up… and see what happens!!! Overall it is normal to be unsure about new environments, classes, and experiences….but without change or putting ourselves in unique situations- we will never grow. If you are concerned please chat with us- especially if you have any medical issues. …..But otherwise… It’s your life…. You better show up for it…live it… experience it…. Otherwise its just a stream of instagram memes and you just missed an incredible opportunity to grow into a better version of yourself.
~Why do I feel tingly/emotional/high/weird/ amazing/hyper/ tired…like my entire life is changing in strange and wild ways? It's all part of the process. Trust your healing and growth. BUT....This is a deep and personal questions to answer in the FAQ.... so PLEASE CHAT WITH US IN REAL LIFE!!!
~Do you collaborate or rent out space to others for classes, workshops, or other events? YES!!!!! PRESENCE Is a community and we love to co-create and share space with those aligned to our mission. Please contact us if you are interested in sharing a class, workshop, or another offering! It can be your own private thing or a potential collaboration.