Conscious connected breathwork is more than just deep breathing—it is a powerful practice that can cleanse the body, regulate the nervous system, and shift the mind into profound states of awareness and healing. By increasing oxygen (O₂) and life-force energy (Prana) in the body, we activate a cascade of physiological and psychological effects that support detoxification, emotional release, and transformation.
The Physical Benefits of Breathwork
Breath is one of the body’s most essential detoxifiers, responsible for eliminating 70% of toxins through the lungs (with the remaining 30% excreted through the bladder, bowels, and sweat). Deep, intentional breathing supports the lymphatic system, which is responsible for neutralizing and moving toxins from the cells to the circulatory system, where they can be processed by the liver and kidneys. When we do not breathe fully, the body must work harder to release these toxins, leading to fatigue and stagnation.
By flushing excess carbon dioxide and increasing oxygenation, breathwork energizes the cells, strengthens immunity, and enhances digestion. Oxygenated blood absorbs and distributes nutrients more efficiently, improving stamina, organ function, and overall vitality. During breathwork, many people experience tingling, numbness, or other bodily sensations due to increased oxygen flow—this is a natural response as the body recalibrates.
The Nervous System & Breathwork
Breath is one of the most direct ways to influence the nervous system.
- Fast, deep breathing activates the sympathetic nervous system (the fight-or-flight response).
- Slow, deep breathing engages the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest-and-digest state).
In a breathwork session, we often titrate between these states—building energy for healing and release, then softening the breath to signal relaxation and heart-rate regulation. This shift is supported by the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, which help to relieve pain and create a sense of ease.
If breathwork ever feels overwhelming, softening the exhale or slowing the breath can bring immediate relief. This is a powerful tool for self-regulation, both in and out of a session.
Tetany: Understanding the Body’s Response
One of the more common physical experiences in breathwork is tetany—a temporary condition where the hands, feet, jaw, or other areas may cramp, tighten, tingle, or feel paralyzed. While this can feel intense, it is not dangerous and always resolves once breathing returns to normal.
The Physiological Cause of Tetany
Deep, connected breathing reduces carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels in the blood, which temporarily increases alkalinity. This shift affects oxygen release in the bloodstream, leading to the sensations associated with tetany.
Many people experience tetany in their first few breathwork sessions, but it naturally subsides over time as the body adapts to these physiological shifts. Additionally, in practices like Alchemy of Breath, we emphasize a relaxed, passive exhale. A forceful exhale can further reduce CO₂ levels and intensify tetany—so if this happens, softening the exhale can help.
The Psycho-Spiritual Meaning of Tetany
Beyond its physiological explanation, tetany can also hold a deeper symbolic meaning. The hands often form a claw-like shape, which can reflect holding onto something tightly—whether that be an emotion, belief, or past experience. Rather than resisting tetany, we can view it as an invitation. It is the body’s way of revealing a threshold that is ready to be crossed, a message asking us to let go, surrender, and trust the process.
Breathwork & the Brain: Moving into Altered States
Scientific research shows that mindfulness and breath awareness stimulate the brain’s neuroplasticity, enhancing the ability to create new neural pathways. This is key in shifting patterns, healing trauma, and building resilience.
During breathwork, we enter an altered state of consciousness, a space of presence and timelessness similar to the effects of:
- Hypnosis
- Meditation
- Yoga
- Exercise (runner’s high)
- Plant medicine
This altered state is linked to transient hypofrontality—a temporary deactivation of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for critical thinking, decision-making, and social control. While this part of the brain is essential for daily life, it can also reinforce limiting beliefs and mental rigidity. By quieting this area, we break free from overthinking and step into expanded states of creativity, intuition, and flow.
The Brain’s Chemical Shift
As we breathe deeply, powerful neurotransmitters are released, guiding the brain through various brainwave states:
- Beta (14-30 Hz) – Our normal waking state, often associated with stress and mental effort.
- Alpha (8-14 Hz) – A relaxed, daydreaming state, where the mind opens to flow and creativity.
- Theta (4-8 Hz) – A deep meditative state, linked to intuition, emotional release, and deep relaxation.
- Delta (0.5-4 Hz) – The slowest state, associated with deep sleep and profound healing.
As the breath slows, the brain releases endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and anandamide, creating sensations of peace, well-being, and emotional connection.
Applying This Knowledge to Breathwork
Understanding the physical and mental effects of breathwork allows us to work more consciously with these states. Whether for healing, personal growth, or performance enhancement, breathwork provides a direct pathway to transformation.
Even high-performing individuals—such as Navy SEALs, athletes, and Silicon Valley professionals—use breathwork and brainwave entrainment techniques (like binaural beats and isochronic tones) to enhance focus, resilience, and creativity.
Through breathwork, we release what no longer serves us, access new perspectives, and rewrite our stories—one breath at a time.
Are you ready to explore the power of your breath? 🌬✨
