Circular breathwork, which involves deliberate hyperventilation, can induce altered states of consciousness (ASCs) comparable to those produced by psychedelics, without the legal, medical, or financial barriers. A reduction in end-tidal CO2 pressure due to hyperventilation is instrumental in catalyzing these ASCs. The depth of the ASCs predicted psychological and physiological follow-on effects, including improved well-being and a reduction of depressive symptoms. Two popular forms of breathwork—Holotropic Breathwork® and Consciously-Connected breathwork—produced highly similar physiological, experiential, and psychological outcomes. These findings outline physiological boundary conditions for ASCs in a non-pharmacological context and suggest breathwork's potential as an accessible psychotherapeutic tool.
The paper introduces the concept of 'bodyset'—the state of the body, including both body and brain—as a vital element in preparing for psychedelic experiences, expanding the traditional 'set and setting' framework. Through a literature review, it argues that the body likely matters for wellbeing, peak performance, and peak experiences. Comprehensive multidisciplinary research, especially on biomarkers, is needed to clarify the role of bodyset in psychedelic experiences and therapy outcomes. The authors suggest that considering physical state alongside psychological and environmental factors may enhance understanding of psychedelic effects and inform other treatments like breathwork.