Breathwork's mind-altering effects tied to shifts in brain network communication
A brain-imaging study of 30 experienced breathwork practitioners found that high-ventilation breathing cut average gray-matter cerebral blood flow by about 45%. Participants described altered states similar to moderate or high doses of LSD or psilocybin, though with weaker visual effects. The researchers reported that changes in default mode network communication, rather than blood flow reduction alone, seemed to track with the intensity of these experiences.
The study scanned 30 healthy, seasoned breathwork practitioners while they used a high-ventilation technique. On average, gray-matter cerebral blood flow dropped roughly 45%, from 16.24 to 9.81 ml/100g/min. Participants often described an oceanic sense of union, comparable to moderate-to-high doses of LSD or psilocybin but with weaker visuals.
Stronger subjective effects coincided with larger shifts in the default mode network, a system tied to self-reflection. Researchers argue that network communication changes, not blood-flow reduction alone, better explain the experience. The work was presented in Munich and remains preliminary: the sample was small, uncontrolled, and limited to experienced practitioners.
If replicated, these findings could shape how clinicians and researchers view breathwork as an accessible, drug-free route to altered states. People seeking mental-health support, especially those wary of psychedelics or medications, may gain another option, though benefits remain unproven. Breathwork teachers and participants might adjust safety guidance as intense practices can produce powerful experiences. Larger controlled studies are needed before broad clinical or public-health claims.