Episode #198
How to change your state in 60 seconds with Tim Thomas
In this deeply moving episode of TNM Unplugged, Zoran Todorovic speaks with Tim Thomas former Australian Special Forces soldier, founder of Breathwork in Bed, and veteran recovery specialist—about the life-changing power of nervous system regulation. After serving in Afghanistan and later battling PTSD, Tim found himself trapped in a cycle of medication, poor sleep and emotional exhaustion. His journey eventually led him to discover something remarkably simple: The breath is one of the most powerful forms of medicine we already carry within us. Together they explore how isolation fuels suffering, why sleep is foundational to wellbeing, how breathwork can transform emotional states within minutes, and why so many leaders unknowingly live in chronic survival mode. Tim also shares the moving story behind his work with military veterans, the lessons learned from trauma, and why helping people feel safe—not simply fixing them—is often the beginning of healing. If you’ve ever struggled with stress, anxiety, burnout, poor sleep or emotional overwhelm, this conversation offers both hope and practical techniques you can begin using today. Topics Explored Tim’s journey through Special Forces and Afghanistan PTSD, trauma and recovering from military service Why isolation is one of our greatest hidden challenges Breaking isolation through human connection Why breathwork works faster than thinking Understanding the nervous system Breathwork for stress, anxiety and emotional regulation Sleep as the foundation of mental and physical wellbeing Morning and evening “golden windows” for transformation Leadership under pressure Emotional resilience and recovery Breath as natural medicine Learning to regulate rather than suppress emotions Moving beyond pharmaceuticals responsibly High performance without burnout Practical breathing exercises anyone can use How breath changes the brain and body Why healing begins with feeling safe The connection between trauma, purpose and service Tim Thomas is the founder of Breathwork in Bed, former Australian Special Forces soldier, veteran recovery specialist and internationally recognised breathwork educator. Following his military service in Afghanistan and his own recovery from PTSD, Tim dedicated his life to helping others regulate their nervous systems naturally through breathwork. Over the past decade he has worked extensively with military veterans, first responders, leaders and everyday people seeking better sleep, reduced anxiety, emotional resilience and greater wellbeing. His Breathwork in Bed platform teaches simple, science-informed breathing practices designed to help people fall asleep with peace, wake with energy and reconnect with themselves—one breath at a time. Key Takeaways Breath is one of the fastest ways to change your emotional state. You don’t have to fight your thoughts—your breath can regulate them. Isolation amplifies suffering; connection creates healing. Sleep is one of the foundations of emotional wellbeing. High performance requires nervous system recovery. Breathwork is practical, accessible and available to everyone. Healing begins when we feel safe. Small daily practices create profound long-term transformation. The first and last five minutes of each day shape how we live. Every person already carries powerful healing resources within themselves. Website Instagram Facebook TikTok LinkedIn Breathwork in Bed App - Apple App Store Breathwork in Bed App - Google Play This episode combines powerful storytelling, neuroscience, leadership, trauma recovery, and practical breathwork into one compelling conversation. It will resonate strongly with leaders, coaches, entrepreneurs, veterans, healthcare professionals, and anyone seeking practical ways to reduce stress, improve sleep, regulate emotions, and perform at their best. The episode also includes a guided breathwork demonstration that listeners can practise safely in an appropriate setting.
