Three Simple Rituals That Transform Stress into Calm


This week’s episode is a special replay of a 2021 conversation between Harmony Slater and Kelsey Murphy, originally aired on the Whiskey & Work podcast. At the height of pandemic-era stress and life juggling, Harmony joined Kelsey to talk about the power of breathwork—why it works, how it affects the nervous system, and simple practices you can start using today. Whether you’re a high performer, busy parent, or someone simply trying to navigate daily overwhelm, Harmony offers gentle, science-backed breathing techniques that make a real difference.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:
- Why breathwork is the simplest, most powerful productivity hack
- The connection between irregular breathing patterns and chronic stress
- How the vagus nerve plays a key role in your emotional and physical health
- Micro-practices for busy mornings, chaotic afternoons, and restless evenings
- How to shift your nervous system out of fight-or-flight and into rest-and-digest
- The unexpected benefits of humming and gratitude
- Why not all breathwork is created equal—and how to avoid making things worse
- The brainwave states that affect creativity, focus, and sleep
- Harmony’s journey from yoga studio owner to global teacher to online coach
- Easy ways to bring your kids into your practice
Guest Bio (Kelsey Murphy):
Kelsey Murphy is a former advertising director turned Fortune 500 coach, host of the Whiskey & Work podcast, and creator of the Coach’s Mastermind. Known for her straight-talking warmth, Kelsey helps entrepreneurs and creatives build aligned, purpose-filled lives without sacrificing joy or sanity. She’s worked with powerhouse brands like Facebook and Twitter and has helped thousands of women reconnect to their purpose.
Call to Action:
If this episode resonates with you, try the 2-minute practice Harmony created just for podcast listeners and let us know what you think! Screenshot the episode, tag @findingharmonypodcast, and share your favorite moment or breath tip.
FREE Manifestation Activation: https://harmonyslater.kit.com/manifestation-activation
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JOIN the Finding Harmony Community: https://community-harmonyslater.com/
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FREE AUDIO GUIDE - Download your 2 min breathwork practice: https://harmonyslater.com/morning-breathwork-optin
JOIN ANCIENT BREATHING 2.0 and Live Classes with Harmony: https://harmonyslater.com/ancient-breathing-2-0
BOOK Your Spinal Energetics Session: https://harmonyslater.as.me/
00:00 - Introduction to Finding Harmony
00:42 - The Power of Breath Work
03:38 - Kelsey Murphy's Perspective
05:28 - Harmony Slater's Journey
12:20 - Transitioning to Online Coaching
18:11 - The Science Behind Breath Work
31:46 - Understanding Breathwork Misconceptions
32:14 - Personal Experiences with Breathwork
32:36 - The Science Behind Breathwork
34:32 - Overcoming Overwhelm with Breathwork
37:25 - Breathwork Techniques for Daily Practice
39:22 - Transitioning Brainwave States
43:33 - Simple Breathwork Exercises
46:51 - Breathwork for Kids and Bedtime Routines
50:12 - The Benefits of Gratitude and Loving Kindness
53:37 - Conclusion and Resources