Breathwork (New Age)

[4][inconsistent] Breathwork is the use of breathing techniques in order to achieve altered states of consciousness and to have a variety of effects on physical and mental well-being.

Such a process can allegedly "dissolve limiting programs" that are "stored" in the mind and body, and increases one's ability to handle more "energy".

[5][full citation needed] Breathwork practitioners believe that an individual's particular pattern of passive breathing can lead to insights about their unconscious mind.

[11] Singer and Lalich write that proponents of such "bizarre" practices are proud of their non-scientific approach, and that this finds favor with an irrational clientele.

[3] Some common side effects include "sleepiness; tingling in the hands, feet, or face; and a sense of altered consciousness that can be distressing to some.

"[6] Breathwork is generally considered safe if done with a skilled practitioner, but there are contraindications such as cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, high blood pressure, mental illness, severe asthma, or seizure disorders, among others.

"[16] A 2023 review said that results showed that breathwork may be effective for improving stress and mental health, but urged caution until more research has been done.