Belonging Through Each Breath: A Practice of Re-membered Connection to Ourselves, Others, and Earth

Publication information:

Erard, Michelle. 2026. “Belonging Through Each Breath: A Practice of Re-Membered Connection to Ourselves, Others, and Earth.” in Belonging: Practices of Inclusion in Spiritual Communities, the Academy, and Society. Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA: Harvard Divinity School: Program for the Evolution of Spirituality.

Abstract

Breathwork with an eco-spiritual focus can cultivate a sense of belonging by promoting connection to ourselves, human and other-than-human life, and environments through mindful, intentional practice. Drawing from select breathwork practices from traditions influential to eco-spirituality, I will survey breathing techniques through an eco-spiritual lens and will lead audience participants in a community practice during this workshop. Eco-spiritual perspectives will be shared to contextualize breathwork techniques included in the workshop. Emphasis will be placed upon individual and relational sensory, somatic, and felt experiences and states of being to foster a sense of belonging.

Presenter Biography

Michelle Erard, MFA, is an artist, mental health worker, and educator trained in dance, improvisation, and somatic practices. Michelle’s artistic work addresses themes of identity in connection to place through exploring perception and memory. Michelle also facilitates inpatient groups offering opportunities for therapeutic engagement. She teaches at Rutgers University.