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About Breathworks

As pioneers in mindfulness-based pain and illness management, Breathworks has transformed over 100,000 lives since 2001. We're the only organisation worldwide teaching our unique approach to pain management, developed through research and our Founder Vidyamala Burch's personal journey with chronic pain.

People practicing mindfulness

Transforming lives through mindfulness since 2001



Our Story

Vidyamala Burch


What began as Vidyamala's exploration of mindfulness to manage her own partial paraplegia and chronic pain has evolved into an internationally recognised methodology, endorsed by NHS Trusts and the British Pain Society.

Vidyamala's pioneering approach combines ancient wisdom with contemporary pain science, offering hope to thousands living with chronic conditions. Her groundbreaking work bridges the gap between traditional pain management and mindfulness practices, creating an accessible path for those seeking relief.

In 2022, Vidyamala's contributions were honoured with an OBE for her services to wellbeing and pain management, recognising two decades of transforming lives through Breathworks' innovative programmes.

Watch Vidyamala's mini-documentary here to discover the inspiring story behind Breathworks:

Watch Vidyamala's story

I started Breathworks with a simple mission that remains true today: to help people suffering to live fuller lives.

Vidyamala Burch OBE





Why learn mindfulness with us? 

Breathworks' unique mindfulness approach to managing pain, illness and stress combines evidence-based practices with deep expertise and compassionate support.

Find out more about what we do in this video:



What we offer

Courses

Begin your journey to lasting wellbeing with our evidence-based courses.

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Trainings

Master the art of teaching mindfulness and empower others to change their lives.

Explore

Events

Deepen your practice through immersive retreats, workshops, and CPDs.

Explore

Workplace

Tailored workplace programmes proven to enhance team wellbeing and performance.

Explore



Our Approach

We stand apart through our evidence-based programmes, delivered by over 700 accredited teachers across 41 countries. Our teacher training is recognised as one of the most comprehensive available, and we're proud founding members of the British Association of Mindfulness-Based Approaches (BAMBA).

This approach could save your life - and give it back to you

Jon Kabat-Zinn - scientist, writer & creator of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction



Our Community

At our heart is a vibrant global community. Our online Community of Practice connects thousands worldwide through regular events and resources, creating a supportive environment for genuine transformation. This depth of community support, combined with our experienced teachers, helps participants truly embed mindfulness into their daily lives. 

Join the Community of Practice today

Join our free mindfulness community platform today



Our Commitment to Accessibility

As a registered charity, we're dedicated to making mindfulness accessible to everyone. We provide scholarships and bursaries, fund community projects, and offer free mindfulness resources. A third of all places on our courses and teacher training are supported by bursaries, ensuring those most in need can access our programmes. Donate to our charity today to help more people benefit from mindfulness.

Donate here




Recognition and impact

Our evidence-based approach has earned significant recognition, including:

Image for award-winning programmes

First Prize

 in Popular Medicine at the British Medical Association Books Awards for Mindfulness for Health.

British Pain Society Logo

Honorary membership

to the British Pain Society for Vidyamala's pioneering work.

NHS logo

Endorsed by the NHS

in the national Reading Well Books on Prescription scheme.

Furthermore, we are committed improving our programmes through our evidence-base, with consistent positive outcomes documented through academic research and course evaluations.



Global partners

Breathworks collaborates with leading mindfulness organisations, medical institutions, and specialist service providers across the UK, Europe, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, and the USA. Our network includes renowned mindfulness centres, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and complementary services, all working together to make mindfulness more accessible worldwide.

Find our full list of partners here.



Transform your life with mindfulness today

Whether you're seeking to manage pain, illness, or stress, our proven approach and supportive network are here to help you reclaim your wellbeing.

Try our free mindfulness taster

Start your mindfulness journey today

    Published: 20th October, 2022

    Updated: 1st October, 2025

    Author: Oliver Bray

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