HEALTH DISCLAIMER

CLASS & WORKSHOP AGREEMENT

updated 10/14/2026

LIABILITY WAIVER & INFORMED CONSENT

I acknowledge that responses to breath and somatic practices are individual and may include physical sensations, emotional responses, or shifts in awareness. I understand that I am always in choice and may pause, modify, or stop the practice at any time.

Voluntary Participation & Personal Responsibility

I confirm that my participation is voluntary and that I am responsible for listening to my body and nervous system throughout the session. I agree to practice self-pacing and to rest or discontinue participation if I experience discomfort or distress.

Health & Well-Being Acknowledgment

While breathwork and somatic practices are generally safe for most people, individual responses can vary. I understand that I am responsible for listening to my body and nervous system and for pacing my participation accordingly.

I confirm that I am not currently experiencing any medical or psychological condition that would make participation unsafe for me at this time, and that I am able to listen to my body and take responsibility for pacing, rest, or stopping as needed. If I am unsure whether participation is appropriate for me, I understand it is my responsibility to consult a qualified healthcare provider before participating.

I understand that this practice is not a substitute for medical care, mental health treatment, or psychotherapy, and that no diagnosis or treatment is being offered.

BREATHWORK SESSIONS

The following disclaimer is used in our most intensive breathwork courses. We believe these are the most extreme potential outcomes. However, we want everyone to be aware of them. If you have any concerns or questions, please speak with a healthcare practitioner or doctor.

Advanced Breathwork can elicit intense feelings. It's not recommended for some people due to the strong physical and emotional responses that may arise. If you have concerns about the emotional impact, please consult your doctor before practicing this type of breathing.

GENERAL SAFETY TIPS:

It is essential to practice breathwork in a safe environment. In some cases, you may experience dizziness or feel light-headed. In some cases, although rare, you may lose consciousness. Therefore, we recommend lying on the floor or in an area where you will not hurt yourself if you fall. You must never practice this style of breathing while driving or in water (drowning can occur) or in any situation where passing out could harm yourself or others.

Circumstances where extra caution or medical guidance is advised:

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Anyone with heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular concerns should seek medical clearance before practicing strong breath holds or activation-based techniques.

• Respiratory Conditions: Those with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues are encouraged to go gently, have inhaler present, and consult a provider if symptoms are severe or unstable.

• Other Medical Conditions: Those with glaucoma, retinal detachment, osteoporosis, significant recent physical injuries, or surgery should consult their medical provider and get approval first.‍ ‍Breathwork is not advised for anyone with seizure disorders, or anyone with a personal or family history of aneurysms.

• Mental Health: Our online breathwork is not advised for anyone with severe anxiety or panic disorder, significant trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or any other serious mental health issue.

• Pregnancy: Gentle breathing patterns are safe and often helpful. Avoid strong activations, more intensive sessions, or prolonged holds. Always double check with your medical provider.

EMBODIED & SOMATIC MOVEMENT SESSIONS

These classes include all somatic-based and embodiment classes offered at Conscious Movements.

I understand that during live or self-study movement sessions, I will participate in lessons using the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic Education and other somatic modalities. My decision to participate is voluntary. I understand that the session will involve light to moderate physical activity. I certify that I am able to engage in such activity.

I understand that progress in this educational system comes through gentleness and attentiveness. I agree to refrain from forceful or straining actions. I agree to remain within my own range of comfort. I agree to immediately discontinue any unwise or excessive actions for me immediately.

I understand that the Feldenkrais Method and other somatic movement offerings are not medical treatment or psychological, nor a substitute for such.

I understand that participation does not include any warranty for effectiveness.

I understand that embodied and somatic-based practices are inherently gentle processes and that physical injury is rare. However, any movement practice has some inherent risks. I assume that risk myself.

PERSONAL CONDUCT:

The Teacher is committed to fostering a respectful environment where participants are welcoming and inclusive of all, and treat others with dignity and respect, and in a non-discriminatory manner.

I hereby acknowledge that I may be removed from a class without a refund if the Teacher or their authorized representatives determine that I am acting disrespectfully toward the Teacher, the Participants, or both.

I agree that I have read and accept the conditions outlined in this service offering for the live classes, session, gatherings, and events, as well as the general terms and privacy policy.

LIVE SERVICES

The date and time of any sessions where the Services are provided live, including, without limitation, live group training calls (the “Live Services”), shall be determined by Conscious Movements in its sole discretion. You assume all responsibility to attend such sessions. Failure to attend a Live Service session shall in no way give rise to any right of reimbursement to you or obligation of Buffy Owens or Conscious Movements to reschedule such session.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, we will provide you with reasonable notice of any anticipated rescheduling of a Live Service.

While the Live and Recorded Classes and resources offered here at Conscious Movements foster health and well-being, it's important to note that any activity of a physical nature carries the risk of injury and loss. While the care and safety of our participants is of utmost importance, such risks cannot be entirely eliminated.

Assumption of Risk & Release of Liability

I acknowledge that I participate at my own discretion and assume full responsibility for any experience that may arise during or after the session. I hereby release and hold harmless Conscious Movements, Buffy Owens, employees, and guest/independent instructors from any liability, claims, or demands arising from my participation.

I hereby waive all legal rights to sue and any and all claims I may ever have against the Teacher or her authorized representatives in connection with any loss, injury, death, damage, or expense that I may suffer or incur in connection with classes or shared resources.

Governing Law & Jurisdiction

This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, United States. Any disputes arising from participation in this session shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in New York, United States.

Acknowledgement

By using this site, joining a class/workshop/retreat/live event, enrolling in the membership or other program, or engaging with audio downloads or other self-guided practices, acknowledge that I have read and understood this consent and voluntarily agree to participate.

The Class Agreement & Liability Waiver are legally binding and contain several clauses that affect you.  They must be accepted for you to access any of our classes, live events, recorded sessions, and related offerings.