A single session of connected breathing reduced negative mood states (anger, tension, confusion, depression) and increased esteem in 20 healthy adults aged 23–39. Electroencephalography recordings showed decreased delta and theta brainwave power in frontotemporal and parietal regions, and decreased beta1 and beta2 power in parietotemporal regions. Experienced practitioners showed increased gamma power. Subjective experiences during breathwork resembled those after medium to high doses of psilocybin, indicating mystical-type experiences. The results suggest breathwork alters brain activity and mood and may improve mental well-being.
A single high dose of psilocybin combined with therapy reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and neuroticism over three months. Scores on openness and conscientiousness increased after treatment. Participants reported mystical-type experiences, emotional breakthrough, and personal growth, which—along with demographic factors—moderated the positive changes. The findings suggest psilocybin-assisted therapy can benefit mood and personality, and highlight the role of subjective experiences and demographics in optimizing this treatment.