Effects of conscious connected breathing on cortical brain activity, mood and state of consciousness in healthy adults

Abstract

Breathwork as a means of inducing non-ordinary states of consciousness is gaining traction as a potential therapeutic modality. We examined the effects of breathwork (in the form of connected breathing) on electroencephalography (EEG) and mood in 20 healthy participants (aged between 23 and 39 years (female = 11, Mage = 29). In addition, to compare with other means of inducing non-ordinary states of consciousness, we assessed the subjective effects of breathwork using the 11 Dimension Altered State of Consciousness questionnaire. EEG spectral power analysis of eyes closed rest recordings before and after the breathwork session showed a decrease in delta (1–4 Hz) and theta (4–8 Hz) frequencies in frontotemporal and parietal regions, respectively no changes were seen in Alpha (9–12 Hz) and Beta (12–30 Hz) bands. However, after decomposing the beta waves in Beta 1 (12–15 Hz), Beta 2 (15–20 Hz), Beta 3 (20–30 Hz), decreases in power were observed across Beta1 and Beta 2 in parietotemporal regions. Notably, the spectral power in gamma increased in experienced practitioners. Scores on the Profile of Mood States questionnaire showed a reduction in negative affect (anger, tension, confusion, and depression) and an increase in esteem. Scores on the 11D-ASC scale indicated that subjective experiences during breathwork were similar to those after medium to high doses of psilocybin, suggesting the occurrence of experiences of mystical quality. Present results indicate that breathwork changes brain activity and mood, and induces mystical experiences. These results are promising and suggest that such techniques could be useful to improve mental well-being.