Intensive breathing linked to altered consciousness and brain communication

Intensive breathing exercises can lead to a reduction in brain blood flow and affect how different brain networks communicate, according to a recent study presented at the ECNP Congress in Munich. Conducted on 30 experienced breathwork practitioners, the research utilized MRI scans to monitor changes in brain activity during high-ventilation breathwork sessions.

Participants reported experiences akin to those induced by psychedelic drugs, such as altered perception, vivid mental imagery, a sense of unity, and shifts in self-experience. The study found that global gray-matter cerebral blood flow decreased by approximately 45% on average during the sessions, from 16.24 to 9.81 ml/100g/min.

Notably, those who reported stronger altered states also exhibited greater changes in the brain's default mode network, which is implicated in self-reflection and self-related thoughts. Lead researcher Dr. Christian Schmitz noted that while many breathwork practitioners experience profound changes, the underlying brain mechanisms are not well understood.

The researchers suggest that the intensity of the experience may be more closely tied to alterations in communication within the default mode network, rather than merely reduced blood flow. Dr. Hana Adolphi emphasized the potential of breathwork as a legal, inexpensive, and nonpharmacological intervention for studying altered states of consciousness and its possible application in mental health treatment.

However, the study's findings are preliminary, given its small sample size and the fact that participants were experienced breathworkers. Further research is needed to determine the clinical relevance of these brain changes and their potential therapeutic benefits.