Breathwork Glossary
The A-Z of Breathwork Terms Defined
Welcome to Breathing Space’s Breathwork Decoder!
Ever heard terms like "pranayama", “integration”, or "holotropic breathwork" and wondered what they mean? This comprehensive glossary defines common and lesser-known breathwork terms, making the language of breath accessible to everyone.
Whether you're new to breathwork or already a breathwork practitioner keen to know more, let this be your guide to understanding and exploring! Many terms include links to articles and resources for deeper learning.
If you have a term you would like to see defined please get in touch with us by emailing breathe@makesomebreathingspace.com
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The release of pent-up emotions, often accompanied by strong physical expressions (crying, shaking, vocalizations, etc.). Can occur during some forms of breathwork.
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The stimulation of specific physiological or energetic processes through breathwork.
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Intentional and controlled breathing patterns, often used in breathwork exercises.
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A type of deep breathing where the diaphragm contracts, expanding the abdomen and allowing the lungs to fill more fully.
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positive statement or mantra repeated during breathwork to reinforce intentions or desired outcomes.
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The integration period following a breathwork session, often involving rest, reflection, journaling, or talking with a trusted person to process the experience.
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The proper positioning of the body during breathwork, typically involving a straight spine and relaxed shoulders.
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A rise in blood pH, making it more alkaline. Overly fast breathing (hyperventilation) can lead to respiratory alkalosis.
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A yogic practice involving alternate breathing through each nostril, aimed at balancing energy channels and calming the mind.
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Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) takes place.
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The use of breathwork to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
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Temporary cessation of breathing, either voluntarily (as in breath-holding exercises) or involuntarily (as in sleep apnea).
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The unconscious control center for bodily functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. Divided into the sympathetic ("fight or flight") and parasympathetic ("rest and digest") branches.
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The practice of focusing attention on the sensations of the breath, body, and present moment during breathwork.
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A therapeutic approach that uses body movements and breathwork to release emotional tension and promote well-being.
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Describes how changes in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and acidity (pH) influence hemoglobin's ability to bind and release oxygen.
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A mindfulness practice often incorporated into breathwork, where you systematically focus attention on different parts of the body.
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A technique with four equal parts: inhale, hold, exhale, hold all for the same length of time. Often used for stress reduction and focus.
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Paying focused attention to the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body.
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A trained professional who guides individuals or groups through breathwork sessions.
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A rapid, forceful yogic breathing technique emphasizing strong exhales.
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The specific rhythm, depth, and pace of breathing used in a breathwork exercise.
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The holding of the breath after inhalation or exhalation in various yogic practices.
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The umbrella term for intentional breathing practices used for various purposes, including stress reduction, emotional healing, and spiritual exploration.
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The subjective experience of a breathwork session, often involving emotional release, self-discovery, and heightened awareness.
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The use of breathwork techniques in a therapeutic setting to address emotional, psychological, or physical issues.
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A calming breathwork technique where you make a humming sound like a bee while exhaling.
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The main passageways into the lungs, branching off from the windpipe (trachea).
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A waste product of respiration, exhaled from the body. Plays a vital role in regulating blood pH and has direct effects on the nervous system.
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In yogic and spiritual traditions, these are energy centers located along the spine, each associated with different aspects of well-being. Breathwork is sometimes used to balance and activate chakras.
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The mental processes involved in acquiring knowledge and understanding, including thinking, perceiving, remembering, judging, and problem-solving.
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A technique involving slow, rhythmic breathing at about 5 breaths per minute, often used to reduce stress and improve heart rate variability.
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Any breathwork practice where attention is intentionally focused on the breath, promoting present moment awareness and various therapeutic effects.
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A form of breathwork involving continuous, circular breathing patterns with no pauses at the top or bottom. Often used to access expanded states of awareness and facilitate emotional release.
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Specific health conditions or situations where breathwork might be inadvisable. Examples include severe respiratory issues, recent surgery, or certain mental health diagnoses.
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A process of mutual nervous system regulation that occurs within interpersonal interactions. In breathwork, coregulation often describes the relationship between a facilitator and a participant, but can also occur in group settings. It involves a practitioner offering a sense of calm and grounded presence, helping the other person feel safe and supported throughout their breathwork journey.
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In Chinese medicine and Qi Gong, this is the energy center located in the lower abdomen, often focused on during breathwork practices.
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The primary muscle of respiration. A dome-shaped muscle below the lungs that contracts during inhalation.
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Engaging the diaphragm, your primary breathing muscle, leading to deeper, more efficient breaths.
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The state of being detached or disconnected from the physical body. In the context of breathwork, it can refer to experiences of feeling as if one is outside of the body or observing it from a distance.
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A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in trace amounts in the human body, particularly in the pineal gland. It's also present in various plants and animals. DMT is known for producing powerful and often mystical experiences, including visual hallucinations, altered states of consciousness, and feelings of interconnectedness.
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A technique where you take two quick inhales followed by one long exhale. This can be used to energize the body and mind.
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The medical term for shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
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A dynamic breathwork technique often characterized by rapid, rhythmic breaths, sometimes accompanied by movement or sound. It's designed to induce altered states of consciousness, emotional release, and feelings of euphoria.
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The practice of bringing awareness and attention to the physical sensations within the body. Breathwork can be a powerful tool for cultivating embodiment.
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The idea that energy flows between individuals during interactions. In breathwork, this can refer to the exchange of energy between a facilitator and participant or within a group setting.
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In the context of breathwork, energy often refers to the life force or "prana" that is believed to flow through the body. Breathwork practices are sometimes used to balance and enhance energy flow.
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The process of one biological rhythm syncing up with another. In breathwork, this can refer to the breath influencing the heart rate or brainwave patterns.
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Equanimity is a mental state of calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in challenging situations. It's about maintaining balance and not being overly swayed by positive or negative experiences. It's not about suppressing emotions, but rather acknowledging them without getting swept away by them.
In the context of breathwork, equanimity can be cultivated through:
Mindful awareness of the breath: Focusing on the physical sensations of the breath anchors us in the present moment, helping us observe our emotions and thoughts without judgment.
Acceptance of discomfort: Breathwork can bring up intense emotions and sensations. Equanimity allows us to acknowledge these experiences without resistance, fostering a sense of inner peace even amidst discomfort.
Non-attachment to outcomes: Breathwork isn't always about feeling good or having a profound experience. Equanimity helps us detach from expectations and embrace the process, whatever it may bring.
Cultivating a balanced perspective: By practicing equanimity, we learn to see both the positive and negative aspects of any situation, fostering a more nuanced and grounded understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Ultimately, breathwork can serve as a powerful tool for developing equanimity, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with greater resilience, compassion, and inner peace.
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The act of breathing out, releasing air from the lungs.
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In breathwork, this often refers to the physical sensation of the chest or abdomen expanding with each inhale, or to the feeling of expanded awareness or consciousness.
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A breathwork technique where the exhalation is intentionally prolonged, often used to calm the nervous system and activate the parasympathetic response.
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A guided breathwork session led by a trained facilitator, often incorporating specific techniques and intentions for healing or personal growth.
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A stress response characterized by people-pleasing behaviors, trying to appease or pacify a perceived threat or danger. Breathwork can help individuals identify and process the underlying emotions and needs connected to this response.
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A term coined by Eugene Gendlin to describe a vague, bodily awareness of an emotion or experience, often used in breathwork to explore and process feelings.
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A stress response where the body prepares to confront a perceived threat or danger, potentially manifesting as anger, aggression, or defensiveness. Breathwork can help regulate this response by calming the nervous system and offering alternative ways to channel intense energy.
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A stress response where the body prepares to escape a perceived threat or danger, potentially manifesting as a desire to run away, avoid, or withdraw from a situation. Breathwork can help soothe this response by promoting relaxation and grounding.
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In breathwork, this refers to the process of setting the stage for a safe and supportive experience. It involves establishing clear boundaries, expectations, and intentions for the session. This can include explaining the specific breathwork technique, discussing potential physical or emotional responses, and creating a container of trust and openness. The frame helps participants feel safe to explore their inner world and provides a structure for the breathwork journey.
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A stress response where the body becomes immobilized or "frozen" in the face of a perceived threat or danger, potentially manifesting as feeling stuck, unable to move or act. Breathwork can help to gently "unfreeze" the body by promoting relaxation and facilitating emotional release.
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The rate of breathing, typically measured in breaths per minute.
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A pattern of breathing that is efficient, balanced, and supports optimal physical and mental health. It often involves nasal breathing, diaphragmatic engagement, and a relaxed pace.
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The volume of air remaining in the lungs after a normal exhalation.
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A category of breathwork practices that prioritize slow, rhythmic, and calming breaths. These techniques are often used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and cultivate a sense of inner peace. They are generally accessible to most individuals and can be easily incorporated into daily life.
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The opening between the vocal cords in the larynx, through which air passes during breathing
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The practice of connecting with the present moment and feeling anchored in the body. Breathwork can be a powerful grounding tool, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of stability.
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Similar to facilitated breathwork, this involves a practitioner leading a group or individual through specific breathing exercises.
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A practice where an individual or group is led through a meditation by a teacher or facilitator, often involving verbal instructions, visualizations, or specific themes to focus the mind and promote relaxation, stress reduction, or self-awareness.
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The variation in time between heartbeats, often used as an indicator of stress and overall well-being. Breathwork practices can improve HRV.
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A protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
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A narrative archetype that describes the transformative process of personal growth, often involving challenges, trials, and ultimately, a return home with newfound wisdom. Some breathwork experiences can mirror this archetypal journey.
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The act of creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for someone to explore their emotions and experiences. It's a key skill for breathwork facilitators and can also be practiced in everyday interactions.
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A powerful breathwork modality developed by Stanislav Grof, utilizing fast, rhythmic breathing, evocative music, and bodywork to access non-ordinary states of consciousness.
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A gentle sound often incorporated into breathwork exercises, thought to have a calming and soothing effect on the nervous system.
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An excess of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. Can be temporarily induced by certain breathwork techniques.
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Rapid breathing that expels too much carbon dioxide (CO2), potentially causing dizziness or faintness. Responsible breathwork practices address this.
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A state of heightened alertness and sensitivity to potential threats, often a result of trauma. Breathwork can help to reduce hypervigilance and promote a sense of safety.
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A state of reduced oxygen in the body. Certain breathwork techniques can induce temporary, mild hypoxia.
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A deficiency of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, often caused by hyperventilation.
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A psychoactive substance derived from the iboga plant, sometimes used in conjunction with breathwork in traditional healing ceremonies.
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The process of intentionally infusing the breath with specific qualities or intentions, such as love, gratitude, or healing energy.
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The phase of breathing where air flows into the lungs.
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The emotional, playful, and vulnerable aspect of our personality, often associated with childhood experiences. Breathwork can help to heal and reconnect with our inner child.
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The internal voice that judges, criticizes, or undermines one's confidence. Breathwork can help to quiet the inner critic and cultivate self-compassion.
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The wise and intuitive part of ourselves that offers guidance, perspective, and a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. Breathwork can facilitate access to this inner wisdom.
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The landscape of our internal world, including thoughts, emotions, sensations, and imagery. Breathwork can help to explore and navigate this inner landscape.
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Our internal dialogue or self-talk. Breathwork can help to cultivate a more positive and supportive inner voice.
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The process of making sense of and incorporating insights or experiences from breathwork sessions into daily life.
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An approach to breathwork that combines various techniques and modalities to address a wide range of physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
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The focus or purpose that guides a breathwork practice. Intentions can range from relaxation and stress reduction to emotional healing and spiritual connection.
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Muscles between the ribs that aid in respiration, particularly during forceful breathing.
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Trauma that is passed down through generations, often manifesting in physical, emotional, or behavioral patterns. Breathwork can be a tool to address and heal intergenerational trauma.
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The awareness of internal bodily sensations, such as heartbeat, breathing, hunger, and emotions. Breathwork can enhance interoception and help us to better understand and respond to our body's signals.
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The practice of relaxing the jaw and facial muscles, often incorporated into breathwork to release tension and encourage deeper breathing.
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A term used to describe the subjective experience of a breathwork session, often involving emotional release, self-discovery, and heightened awareness.
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A broader term that encompasses various modalities (including breathwork) that facilitate deep inner exploration and personal growth.
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A rapid, forceful yogic breathing technique emphasizing strong exhales, believed to cleanse and energize the body.
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A therapeutic approach that combines breathwork with ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, to facilitate emotional healing and self-exploration.
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In yogic philosophy, this refers to a dormant energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. Breathwork practices like Kundalini yoga aim to awaken and channel this energy for spiritual growth and transformation.
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A specific style of yoga that incorporates breathwork (pranayama), physical postures (asanas), chanting (mantras), and meditation to awaken kundalini energy.
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The part of the throat that contains the vocal cords and plays a crucial role in breathing, swallowing, and sound production.
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A complex set of brain structures involved in processing emotions, memories, and motivation. Breathwork can have a significant impact on the limbic system, helping to regulate emotions and reduce stress.
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In the context of breathwork, this term refers to a transitional state or threshold of consciousness often experienced during deep breathing practices. This liminal space can feel like a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind, where insights, emotions, and memories may arise.
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The total volume of air that the lungs can hold. Breathwork exercises can help to increase lung capacity over time.
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The primary organs of respiration, responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide.
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A psychedelic substance sometimes used in conjunction with breathwork to enhance therapeutic and spiritual experiences.
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A sound, word, or phrase repeated during breathwork or meditation to focus the mind and promote relaxation.
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A synthetic drug with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties, sometimes used in conjunction with breathwork in therapeutic settings.
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A practice of focusing the mind and observing thoughts and emotions without judgment. Breathwork is often used as a tool to deepen meditation practice.
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Metacognition refers to the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes. It involves self-regulation of cognition through planning, monitoring, and evaluating one's mental activities. Essentially, "thinking about thinking."
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The practice of paying non-judgmental attention to the present moment. Breathwork is often used to cultivate mindfulness.
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The energy-producing structures within cells, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell. Breathwork is believed to enhance mitochondrial function.
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Breathing through the mouth rather than the nose. While sometimes necessary, nasal breathing is generally preferred in breathwork for its filtering and warming effects on the air.
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The connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles and other organs throughout the body.
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A bodywork technique that involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to the myofascial tissues to release tension and pain. Breathwork can complement myofascial release by promoting relaxation and enhancing body awareness.
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The network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body. Breathwork can have a profound impact on the nervous system, helping to regulate stress and promote relaxation.
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The term used to describe the natural variations in human brain function and behavior, encompassing conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and others. Breathwork can be a supportive tool for neurodivergent individuals.
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An inclusive term that acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human neurological experiences.
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A specific type of breathwork that focuses on stimulating the nervous system to release trauma and promote emotional regulation. It often involves a combination of rhythmic breathing, body movement, and sound.
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A term used to describe individuals with typical neurological development and functioning.
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A molecule produced in the body that plays a role in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and other physiological processes. Nasal breathing increases nitric oxide production.
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Breathing through the nose rather than the mouth. It's often encouraged in breathwork as it filters, warms, and humidifies the air, and can promote nitric oxide production.
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A yogic breathing technique where you slightly constrict the back of the throat, creating a sound like ocean waves, as you breathe in and out. It's said to be calming and warming.
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A breathwork practice that utilizes specific breathing patterns and movements to cultivate sexual energy and potentially induce orgasm.
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In psychology, this refers to fragmented aspects of the self that may have split off due to trauma or difficult experiences. Breathwork can help to reintegrate these orphaned parts and promote a sense of wholeness.
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A specific type of active meditation developed by Osho that incorporates chaotic breathing, cathartic movement, and silent stillness.
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A spiritual teacher who developed a variety of active meditation techniques, including Osho Dynamic Meditation, that often involve breathwork.
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The vital gas that we inhale, essential for cellular respiration and energy production.
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Another term for hyperventilation, where you breathe too rapidly and exhale too much carbon dioxide.
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A technique for retraining respiratory muscles and breathing patterns, often used for those with COPD or other respiratory conditions.
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The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for rest, relaxation, and digestion. Breathwork can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, counteracting stress and promoting healing.
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A small gland in the brain that produces melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Some believe breathwork can activate the pineal gland.
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Breathwork practices that are rooted in the understanding of polyvagal theory. These approaches focus on activating the ventral vagal response (associated with calmness and connection) through specific breathing techniques. The goal is to promote emotional regulation, stress resilience, and a sense of safety within the body.
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A theory developed by Dr. Stephen Porges that explains how the autonomic nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, regulates our physiological and emotional responses to stress, safety, and social connection. It proposes a hierarchy of three neural circuits—ventral vagal (social engagement), sympathetic (fight or flight), and dorsal vagal (freeze or shutdown)—that influence our behaviors and relationships.
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In yogic philosophy, prana is the vital life force or energy that flows through the body. Breathwork is considered a way to cultivate and balance prana.
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Yogic breathing practices with various techniques and goals (energy control, relaxation, spiritual focus).
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The practice of focusing attention on the here and now, often cultivated through breathwork.
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The use of breathwork in conjunction with psychedelic substances like psilocybin or LSD.
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A form of breathwork like CCB that utilizes specific breathing patterns, often rapid and rhythmic, to induce altered states of consciousness without the use of external substances. This can lead to experiences of heightened awareness, emotional release, mystical insights, and spiritual connection.
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A technique where you breathe out slowly through pursed lips, often used to improve breathing in people with lung conditions.
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In Chinese philosophy and medicine, this term refers to the vital life force or energy that flows through the body. Breathwork practices, such as Qi Gong, are often used to cultivate and balance Qi.
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A system of coordinated body posture and movement, breathing, and meditation used for health, spirituality, and martial arts training
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In physics, quantum refers to the smallest discrete unit of energy or matter. In the context of breathwork, the term "quantum" is sometimes used metaphorically to describe the potential for breathwork to access deeper levels of consciousness and energy, or to facilitate profound shifts and transformations.
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Some practitioners and theorists propose that the act of conscious breathing may influence subtle energy fields or quantum processes within the body. This remains a speculative area of inquiry, but it highlights the potential for breathwork to explore the interconnectedness of mind, body, and energy.
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The original style from which Conscious Connected Breathing (CCB) evolved, focusing on circular breathing and the release of birth-related trauma.
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The opposite of the stress response, characterized by decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension. Breathwork can help elicit the relaxation response.
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The harmonious vibration or frequency created by synchronized breathing patterns. In a group breathwork setting, resonance can amplify the effects of the practice.
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The network of organs and tissues involved in breathing, including the lungs, diaphragm, and airways.
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In trauma-informed breathwork and other therapeutic modalities, resourcing refers to techniques or experiences that help an individual find a sense of safety, grounding, and inner strength.
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The overall process of gas exchange (oxygen in, carbon dioxide out) and the cellular use of oxygen to create energy.
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A gentle form of yoga that uses props to support the body in passive postures, promoting deep relaxation and stress reduction. Breathwork is often incorporated into restorative yoga practices.
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The practice of holding the breath after inhalation or exhalation.
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Breathwork techniques that involve consistent and patterned breathing, often used to induce relaxation or specific states of consciousness.
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The practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health and well-being. Breathwork is a valuable self-care tool that can be incorporated into daily life.
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A spiritual practice involving altered states of consciousness, often induced through rhythmic drumming, chanting, or breathwork, to connect with the spirit world and seek guidance or healing.
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A specific type of breathwork practice inspired by shamanic traditions, often involving rhythmic breathing, evocative music, and intention setting to access altered states of consciousness and facilitate healing, personal growth, and spiritual connection.
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In a group breathwork setting, this refers to the time after the practice when participants have the opportunity to share their experiences, insights, or emotions with the group.
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A natural, deep breath that can be intentionally incorporated into breathwork to release tension and reset breathing patterns.
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The body, as distinct from the mind.
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Relating to the body, particularly as experienced through sensations, feelings, and movement.
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Breathwork practices that emphasize the connection between the breath and bodily sensations, often used to release stored tension, trauma, and emotions.
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A therapeutic approach developed by Peter Levine that utilizes body awareness and movement to heal trauma and stress.
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The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the fight-or-flight response. Breathwork can help to downregulate the sympathetic nervous system and promote relaxation.
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A state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. Breathwork is widely used to manage and reduce stress.
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The body's physiological and psychological response to a perceived threat.
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Involuntary muscle cramping or spasms, sometimes occurring during certain breathwork practices.
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Any breathwork practice used to promote physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual healing.
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The amount of air inhaled or exhaled in a single, normal breath.
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The tube that carries air from the throat to the lungs.
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A specific breathwork modality that utilizes a connected circular breathing pattern, bodywork, and affirmations to facilitate emotional release, energy flow, and personal transformation.
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Relating to experiences or states of consciousness that transcend the personal or individual ego. Some breathwork practices can induce transpersonal experiences.
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Emotional or psychological distress caused by a disturbing event or series of events. Breathwork is increasingly used to support trauma healing and recovery.
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An approach acknowledging the potential of breathwork to trigger past trauma, prioritizing safety, consent, and trained facilitators.
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The process of releasing stored tension, emotions, and energy patterns related to trauma. Breathwork can be a powerful tool for trauma release.
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A stimulus that evokes a memory or emotional response, particularly related to trauma. Breathwork can be used to identify and process triggers in a safe and controlled environment.
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A Tibetan Buddhist practice combining breathwork, visualizations, and specific postures to generate inner heat and access meditative states.
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Breathing at an abnormally slow rate, resulting in an increased amount of carbon dioxide in the blood.
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Breathing that occurs automatically without conscious awareness or control.
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Shallow breathing that primarily involves the upper chest and shoulders, rather than the diaphragm.
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The longest cranial nerve in the body, connecting the brain to many major organs, including the heart, lungs, and gut. It plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, regulating rest, relaxation, and digestion.
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The intentional activation of the vagus nerve, often through breathwork or other techniques, to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
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The process of air moving in and out of the lungs.
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The maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after taking the deepest possible breath.
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A technique often used in breathwork where you create mental images to enhance the experience or achieve specific goals, such as relaxation, healing, or manifestation.
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The sound produced by the vocal cords. Breathwork can help to improve vocal quality and control.
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Breathing that is consciously controlled, as in many breathwork practices.
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A popular breathwork method developed by Wim Hof, also known as "The Iceman." It involves a combination of deep breathing exercises, cold exposure, and meditation to improve physical and mental health.
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A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. Breathwork is often used to enhance overall wellness.
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An educational or instructional class focused on breathwork techniques and practices.
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The complementary energy to Yin, Yang represents action, outward movement, warmth, and dynamism. Breathwork techniques that are energizing, stimulating, or emotionally expressive can have a Yang-like quality.
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In traditional Chinese philosophy, Yin represents qualities like receptivity, stillness, coolness, and inward focus. Within the context of breathwork, practices that promote relaxation, introspection, and a release of tension can be considered Yin-like in their energetic effect.
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A slower-paced style of yoga emphasizing long-held, passive postures and focused breathwork. Yin yoga targets connective tissues (fascia, ligaments, tendons) and encourages a deeply introspective state.
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A guided relaxation practice, sometimes incorporating breath awareness, that leads to a deep state between sleep and wakefulness.
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Some Zen Buddhist practices utilize mindful awareness of the breath as a central focus, sharing similarities with the emphasis on breath observation found in certain breathwork styles.
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A school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and mindfulness. Breath awareness is a core practice in Zen meditation. The word "Zen" is often used colloquially to describe a state of calm attentiveness or peaceful focus.
The Art & Science of Breathwork: Airwaves
Curious about breathwork ? Our Airwaves blog is your comprehensive resource for all things breath. We explore the art, science, and embodiment of breathwork through insightful articles, research findings, and practical tips. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, discover how to harness the power of your breath for well-being, healing, and personal growth.
