Sunday Edition: Kerry Flower Breathwork and movement practitioner

Tell us about yourself, Kerry.

I’m a mother and a dog owner, and I love spending time in both nature and the vibrancy of the city. I’m passionate about learning, love cooking, eating out, and swimming in the sea. I’m completely addicted to cold plunges and saunas. I live in Dulwich but spend a lot of time in Peckham, where I’m part of a fantastic yoga community I love. My life has been full of beautiful experiences, as well as many emotional challenges, but with the help of my friends and family and the well-being techniques I’ve learned along the way, I’ve managed to bounce back and become more resilient. Lastly, I’m also addicted to hummus, crisps and hot chocolate. I’m also excited to fall in love! 

Tell us about your journey to becoming a breathwork and yoga practitioner?

I’ve always been passionate about fitness and well-being, starting with sports as a child. Over time, that passion became a focus on yoga and, eventually, breathwork. I began practicing yoga over 20yrs ago when there were only a few studios in London, and I was lucky to find excellent teachers who guided me on a fantastic journey, showing me how yoga can be incorporated into my life both on and off the mat. Breathwork has always been central to my practice, and I now also teach Transformational Breathwork, which is an incredibly powerful experience that helps people connect deeply with themselves. 

 Breathwork is still a new practice for many. Why is it important, and how can we make it part of our daily lives?

Our breath is such a simple yet powerful tool, and we often forget it’s always there to help us. Whether we’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need to centre ourselves, breathwork is a way to calm down and feel grounded. It encourages stillness and presence, helping us stay in the moment. Incorporating breath awareness into daily life is a transformative practice—one we can all benefit from.

What has been your main personal well-being goal, and how do you work toward it?

My goal is to connect with people on a deeper level so I can make a difference to their lives. Through the process of listening, empathising, being open and kind and continuing to learn.

I also try to appreciate the simple things in life and make space to stop, breathe, and be grateful. These moments of mindfulness are what keep me grounded and content.

 Before the day begins or at night, talk to us about a well-being practice you’ve incorporated into your daily life. What is your ritual, and how do you prepare for it?

I practice both journaling and meditation. I tend to journal in the evening and meditate in the morning. My journaling varies—it might focus on gratitude or simply help clear the noise and busyness in my head. Meditation helps me start the day feeling calm and with intention.

What is your daily pleasure? How often do you indulge in it?

Hot chocolate! Preferably a frothy cacao with almond milk. It’s been a lifelong pleasure and something I hope to enjoy forever. I indulge in it whenever I can, which is daily during the colder months.

It’s autumn; how do you anchor yourself and enjoy the season ahead?

I love wrapping up warm, taking my dog for long walks, making soups, and, of course, drinking as much hot chocolate as possible! It’s a cozy and grounding time of year, which I love. I try to remember to look up and take in the beauty of the trees and the changes taking place in nature. 

How well do you sleep? What are your bedtime tricks or routines?

My sleep seems to move in cycles—weeks of great sleep followed by periods of broken sleep where I wake through the night. I’m an over-thinker, so I try to do what I can to relax and unwind before bed. I avoid screens, keep my bedroom calm and peaceful, and use magnesium oil or tablets, along with relaxation oils. A little face massage and journaling also help me unwind. I like to read a few pages of a book, but that’s usually as much as I can manage before I’m out for the count.

Can you tell us about your diet? Is it disciplined? What do you prioritise?

This year, I gave up sugar (except for hot chocolate!) and alcohol, with a few exceptions. I usually stop drinking for the first three months of the year, but this year I’ve kept on going. I realised alcohol was affecting my sleep, and when things weren’t going well, it made me wake up feeling anxious and overthinking situations. Prioritising better sleep has been a big focus. Giving up sugar has been pretty easy for me. I’ve noticed a difference in my skin—it looks fresher and clearer. I try to eat a wide and varied selection of vegetables, berries, nuts, and I’m always trying different supplements.

What do you hope to bring to anatomē in these workshops?

I hope everyone leaves with at least one simple technique they can easily incorporate into their lives, and I want the evening to be fun and enjoyable for all!

Lastly, if you were to share your philosophy of life, what would it be?

My affirmation for life is “Feel the Feels.” To me, this means embracing and processing emotions as they come, whether good or bad. By acknowledging them, digging into them, and then allowing them to pass, I avoid getting stuck in negativity. It’s also a reminder to appreciate the beauty in life, no matter how big or small—and that always makes me smile.