Altered states of consciousness (ASCs) similar to those induced by psychedelics can be achieved through circular breathwork, a non-pharmacological practice. During breathwork sessions, deliberate hyperventilation reduces end-tidal CO2 pressure, which is significantly correlated with the onset of ASCs. The depth of these ASCs predicted subsequent improvements in well-being and reductions in depressive symptoms. Two forms of breathwork, Holotropic and Conscious-Connected, produced highly similar outcomes. The findings identify physiological conditions for ASCs outside of drug use, suggesting breathwork's potential as an accessible psychotherapeutic tool.
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.