How breathwork works

Breathwork works by regulating your nervous system through the breath. It activates different parts of the nervous system to calm or energise, while releasing stored tension and emotions through increased oxygen flow.

The science

Breathwork influences your autonomic nervous system, balancing the parasympathetic ("rest and digest") and sympathetic ("fight or flight") responses. It also improves oxygenation, heart rate variability, and emotional regulation.

Stress and anxiety

Breathwork activates the parasympathetic nervous system, signalling your body to relax. Techniques like extended exhales and diaphragmatic breathing slow heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce cortisol.

Sleep

Techniques like 4-7-8 breathing or progressive breathing can calm your mind, relax your body, and prepare you for restful sleep.

Emotions

Breathwork can help release stored emotions by increasing oxygen flow and stimulating areas of the brain linked to emotional regulation.