Reported Benefits and Potential Contraindications of Breathwork

Benefits

Benefits vary widely from individual to individual, and from method to method.

Breathwork is ultimately a method that is used to assist overall quality of life and isn’t intended to substitute pharmaceutical or medical treatment for pre-existing medical conditions or otherwise.

It is important to note that the owner of Wholesome Wellness and Breath is not a licensed medical professional and does not claim to diagnose or heal anyone’s medical conditions.

With all of that in mind, here is what scientific research suggests are some potential benefits of Breathwork, fully depending on your level of commitment, your specific lifestyle and your unique physiology/health status:

  • Improved Brain Health/Cognitive Function

  • May stimulate creativity and memory

  • May assist in balancing emotions

  • May relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression

  • May lower Inflammation

  • May encourage efficient nutrient absorption

  • Can assist in stabilizing Blood Sugar Levels

  • May encourage healthy Blood Pressure

  • Could decrease Risk Of Stroke and Cardiac Arrest

  • May increase Bone Mineral Density

  • Supports Immune System Function

  • Promotes Weight Loss

  • May reduce feelings of grief

  • Shown to promote healthy Heart Rate Variability

  • Facilitates increased Aerobic Capacity

  • Facilitates increased Vagus Nerve Activity

  • Reduces the potential of oxidative stress

  • Shown to promote oxygen efficiency

  • May increase vitality and longevity

  • Promotes relaxation, reducing symptoms of chronic stress

  • Facilitates improved quality and depth of sleep

  • Promotes long term overall quality of life

Contraindications

Doctor approval is always recommended before beginning a new lifestyle regime, but in some cases will be required. An overly-thorough waiver will be required for all classes, even when it is completely safe for everyone.

Energized Daily Dose SOMA Breath Workshop may be attended by all, but the breath holds involved in this session should not be performed in the case of the following:

  • Diseases or infections which impair your ability to breathe such as COPD

  • Any medical, physical or psychiatric condition which would impair or affect the ability to involve in deep physical and emotional releases

  • Severe uncontrolled hypertension (especially after a heart attack)

  • Organ Failure or late-stage terminal illness

  • If you have epilepsy, a pacemaker, or irregular heartbeat

  • Actively using recreational drugs

  • Glaucoma or Detached Retina

  • During pregnancy

The Lymphatic Detox should not be performed during pregnancy due to the deep contractions in the abdominal and pelvic region.

All Meditations are safe for everyone, those who experience severe psychiatric conditions should consult with a medical professional before engaging in any particular meditation.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation is generally safe for everyone unless you have a history of muscle spasms, serious injuries or chronic pain. It is recommended to speak with a health professional about your unique health status before deciding to attend this class.

Diaphragmatic Vacuum is for seasoned fitness or breathwork participants with signed waiver.

  • Participants with high blood pressure or history of heart attack are required to have doctor’s consent.

  • This cannot be performed in the case of pregnancy due to the deep contractions in the abdominal and stomach region.

  • Participants should not eat within 2-3 hours before entering this session.