Adam Antoszewski
In this deeply thoughtful and surprisingly funny conversation, we sit down with Adam Antoszewski—kendo instructor, freediver, breathing coach, and former acupuncturist—for a wide-ranging journey into the art of living deliberately.
We kick things off with how martial arts shaped Adam's inner and outer discipline. From there, we dive into Adam’s fascination with freediving, what it teaches you about fear and self-awareness, and how it connects with breathwork on a physical and emotional level.
We explore the philosophy of movement and how martial arts - especially kendo - are not just about combat but about self-expression and harmony. Adam also shares his honest struggles trying to follow his passions professionally in a world that wasn’t ready for acupuncture and meditation… and how he found his way back, years later, on his own terms.
Along the way, we get into breathing practices, the science behind oxygen and CO₂, the difference between breathwork and meditation, and even why taping your mouth shut at night might not be as weird as it sounds.
This episode is about so much more than kendo or breathing. It’s about how we reconnect with ourselves through deliberate practice, and how carving out space for our passions can be a radical act of self-acceptance.
Key Takeaways
The way you breathe shapes your body—and your mind
Nasal breathing improves not just oxygen intake, but your physical structure, focus, and stress levels.
Freediving teaches you to befriend discomfort
Learning to stay calm while your body screams for air is the ultimate lesson in staying grounded.
Martial arts are a mirror
Whether it’s aikido or kendo, your movements (and even your battle cries) reflect your inner world.
Practice doesn’t make perfect—it makes presence
Whether it’s playing cello or throwing strikes, long-term practice invites humility and personal growth.
Make time for what grounds you
Even in a noisy, tech-fuelled world, our breathing and body awareness can bring us back to ourselves.
Useful Links
Highland Breathing Initiative - Adam’s new business, offering one-to-one sessions and workshops to enhance athletic performance and overall well-being
Inverness Kendo Club - local dojo led by Adam, offering kendo classes for all levels.
One Breath Around The World – The awe-inspiring freediving film by Guillaume Néry.
Breath by James Nestor – Mentioned indirectly via scientific findings on correct breathing (worth linking!).