“I enjoy breaking down complex ideas into something simple”: From Science at ESC to Breathwork

A former East Sussex College student who studied A-Level Chemistry, Maths and Business is now applying his scientific knowledge in an unexpected way - helping people improve their wellbeing through breathwork.

Ben Burgess has taken an unconventional path since leaving College, becoming a qualified breathwork instructor who blends his scientific background with a passion for mindfulness. He now delivers guided sessions designed to support stress relief, focus and emotional balance.

After leaving education, Ben began exploring wellbeing practices more deeply while looking to build something of his own. During this time, he was introduced to breathwork through his uncle, who had launched Ganesha Retreats - a Sussex-based wellbeing business focused on improving health, mindset and overall quality of life.

“I began practising it myself and was immediately drawn to the way it made me feel,” said Ben. “There was a noticeable shift in energy, focus and clarity.”

That initial experience sparked a deeper curiosity. Coming from a background in science, Ben wanted to understand what was happening in the body and why such a simple technique could have such a powerful effect. This led him to train as a breathwork instructor, combining practical experience with scientific understanding.

Set within woodland surroundings, Ganesha Retreats offers nature-led breathwork, meditation and mindfulness experiences. The retreats focus on helping people step away from everyday pressures and reconnect through structured breathing techniques.

Drawing on his background in science, Ben brings a unique perspective to his work - helping people understand not just how breathwork feels, but why it works.

“I enjoy breaking down complex ideas into something simple and relatable so that people can understand not only what to do, but why they are doing it,” he said. “As I went through my training, I began to see how breathing directly influences the nervous system, oxygen efficiency and overall mental state.”

Through his experience, Ben has become increasingly aware of the pressures facing young people today and the role simple techniques like breathwork could play in supporting them.

“Young people today are navigating a fast paced and highly stimulated world. Breathwork offers a way to reconnect with a sense of calm and clarity. It gives people a tool they can use at any time to steady themselves, improve focus and feel more in control of their state.”

Looking back on his own time as a student, Ben recognises how valuable these techniques could have been.

“Breathwork would have been a powerful tool during my time at college. It supports focus, reduces stress and helps regulate both the body and mind.

“My experience at the college was very positive. I built strong relationships with my tutors and often spent extra time with them outside of lessons to deepen my understanding and prepare for exams. They were supportive, encouraging and always pushed me to improve.”

Ben is looking to establish himself locally and continue developing his work within the wellbeing space. He is also exploring opportunities to collaborate with other practitioners in the area.

Alongside this, Ben is keen to reconnect with East Sussex College and give something back to current students.

“Being able to return and share something that has had such a positive impact on my own life is important to me. It feels like a full circle moment and an opportunity to give something valuable back.”

He is currently hoping to deliver breathwork sessions for both students and staff, introducing simple, practical techniques that can help manage stress, improve focus and support overall wellbeing.

“I would want them to leave with something they can use immediately,” said Ben. “Simple techniques to manage stress, improve focus and increase their energy when they need it. That sense of control over your own state is incredibly powerful.”

Ben also speaks positively about the role East Sussex College played in his journey.

“The environment helped me develop discipline in my studies and gave me a solid academic foundation that I still draw upon today.”

With growing awareness around mental health and wellbeing, Ben’s journey highlights how different career paths can evolve - and how skills gained in education can lead to unexpected and meaningful opportunities.

After completing his A-Levels at East Sussex College, Ben decided university wasn’t the right next step for him and instead chose to pursue a more hands-on path, which ultimately led him into breathwork and wellbeing.

For those keen to experience Ben’s work in action and see what these retreats have to offer, you can explore more on the Ganesha Retreats website: https://ganesha-retreats.co.uk/