The benefits and pitfalls of breathwork

Could it really be that difficult to consciously change your breathing pattern to promote stress relief and relaxation, which breathwork practices promise to do? As it turns out, experts say learning breathwork as a beginner is harder than most understand. That's partly because many people are accustomed to drawing short breaths from their chest, rather than inhaling deeply from their abdomen. Altering this pattern can be challenging, as it requires an awareness that many people don't possess, through no fault of their own. The body's reflexes are powerful; it's easy to take breathing for granted. But there are also dangers to practicing breathwork without proper guidance and support. If you're curious about pursuing breathwork, here's what you should know about how it works, the benefits, and when to stop.

If you have any health concerns, contact a trusted health care professional before starting breathwork.