Specific breathing techniques may produce altered states of consciousness without the use of psychedelic drugs, according to a new study. Researchers found that participants who practiced rapid, deep breathing reported experiences including a stronger sense of connection, expanded awareness and feelings of unity.
The technique, known as hyperventilation breathwork (HVB), involves controlled exercises using rapid and deep breathing. Researchers said some participants described experiences that resembled certain effects associated with moderate to high doses of psychedelic substances such as LSD and psilocybin, although visual or hallucinatory effects were reportedly less prominent.
What the Study Found
Researchers described some of the reported experiences as “oceanic states,” referring to feelings of expanded awareness, interconnectedness and a sense of unity.
The findings suggest that changes in breathing patterns may influence subjective states of consciousness. However, the study focuses on reported experiences and does not establish that breathwork produces the same effects as psychedelic drugs.
Researchers said the significance of the findings extends beyond altered mental states. Studying how breathing exercises affect consciousness could contribute to a better understanding of human mental experiences and inform future research into potential approaches for mental health treatment.
Hana Adolfi, a co-author affiliated with the Central Institute of Mental Health, said breathing exercises are a legal, low-cost and drug-free method that could provide researchers with a useful way to study altered states of consciousness.
She said understanding the mechanisms behind these experiences could also support further research into potential approaches to mental health treatment.