There are a lot of books out there focused on finding your purpose. This one, by author Francesca Sipma, approaches it somewhat differently. Instead of trial and error (though there is a nod to that approach), focus on the “unblocking” strategy—the notion that your purpose is within you but blocked by all the external and internal chatter that clogs the path to an epiphany.

Francesca chose a fast-paced life as a New York City advertising executive, relishing and excelling in the highly competitive and cutthroat environment—until one day.

Knowing there was something more to life and eager to explore it, she embarked on a globe-trotting journey in search of her true purpose. Despite the questionable approaches and seemingly charlatan spiritual advisors, she tried most. Then, something suddenly clicked. Her life was changed forever through the profound power of conscious breathwork.

Francesca developed a process she calls “Hypnobreathwork” and built her empire by sharing it with clients one-on-one, deploying her trained coaches to teach the practice to their students, and now through her book. Using breath to unlock one’s mind, set intentions, and discover insights is a masterful success experience that she and her followers believe has transformative power. Her book walks the reader through the process and provides the scientific (including anatomical and psychological) foundation supporting her methods.

I participated in each chapter’s exercises—breathwork and journaling—and was once again reminded of the power of the breath to improve mood and temporarily elevate my health, but also to center myself and capture a few epiphanies. I also realized that “Hypnobreathwork,” which combines three powerful practices—breathwork, hypnosis, and visioning—is best served in person. The book is helpful and educational, and I recommend reading it if you are interested in using what you have at your disposal to start the transformational process. I also think it lays the groundwork for change and helps you uncover why you should explore this strategy in the first place.

Moreover, the book explains why Francesca has devoted her life to this methodology.

I enjoyed her honest confessions. What she felt trapped by or embarrassed about is genuinely relatable. It may be challenging to achieve the same outcomes as she did simply by reading her book, but I believe her intent was to introduce her model and provide a snapshot of what a session with her or one of her certified coaches would be like.

In summation, if you want more out of life and feel there’s more in store for you (ahem…who doesn’t), Unblock Your Purpose is worth a read.

Book and Images Courtesy of New World Library