A recent study conducted in Frankfurt, Germany, reveals that circular breathing techniques can induce altered states of consciousness, leading to improved mental well-being. The research, spearheaded by Martha N. Havenith from the Ernst Strüngmann Institute and the MIND Foundation, was published in "Communications Psychology."
The experiences reported by participants during circular breathing sessions mirrored those induced by psychedelics. These altered states correlated with enhanced psychological well-being and a reduction in depressive symptoms. Researchers suggest that circular breathing may offer a practical, non-pharmacological approach to treating mental disorders, including depression and PTSD, especially given the limitations surrounding psychedelic therapy.
Circular breathing techniques, drawing inspiration from traditions like Tummo and Pranayama Yoga, have evolved into methods such as Holotropic Breathwork and Conscious Connected Breathwork. These practices involve continuous, deep breathing without pauses, often performed in group settings with music. The study involved 61 experienced participants at the MIND Foundation in Berlin, with 43 engaging in active breathing and 18 in a passive control group. Researchers monitored psychological well-being, carbon dioxide levels, and biomarkers related to stress and inflammation.
The active breathing group experienced significantly lower CO2 levels, which correlated with more intense changes in consciousness. A week after the session, participants reported improved well-being and reduced depressive symptoms, with the degree of improvement linked to CO2 reduction and the intensity of the subjective experience. The study indicates that circular breathing could be a cost-effective method for inducing beneficial changes in consciousness, with CO2 reduction playing a key physiological role. Further research is needed to validate these findings.