Breathwork isn’t for everyone

Contraindications for breathwork

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I'm obviously a big believer in breathwork as a tool to transform your wellbeing. 

It's incredibly effective at enhancing clarity and creativity, as well as releasing blocked energy, suppressed emotions and limiting beliefs.

One of the things I like most about it is that it doesn't require anything external - you don't need to go somewhere, believe something, ingest something, or wear something - it's available to all of us, pretty much all of the time.

That said, there are some instances where I wouldn't recommend breathwork, and in some cases where I would strongly discourage it.

Understanding Breathwork Contraindications

Contraindications refer to specific conditions or situations where breathwork might be inappropriate or potentially harmful. It's important to note that these contraindications may vary depending on the specific type of breathwork being practiced. Here are some common contraindications to be aware of.

Cardiovascular Conditions: Individuals with heart-related conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or recent stroke/heart surgery should exercise extreme caution when participating in breathwork practices. Certain breathing techniques, like rapid or deep breathing, can affect heart rate and blood pressure, and increase the risk of heart attacks, arrhythmia or ruptures, so it's important to practice discernment if you have any of these conditions.

Respiratory Issues: People with respiratory issues like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other lung-related disorders may find some breathwork techniques challenging or uncomfortable. Rapid or forceful breathing could exacerbate these symptoms or lead to discomfort, so it's important to make sure you're aware of this before engaging.

Pregnancy: While some types of breathwork are safe for pregnant women (and often very beneficial), certain breathwork practices can lead to hyperventilation, which may trigger an emotional reaction or experience in the mother. Generally I advise that if you're in your 2nd or 3rd trimester, it's best to avoid any deep forms of breathwork (e.g. holotropic or hypnobreathwork) and instead focus on other forms of calm and controlled breathing to help prepare for your birthing experience.

History of Trauma: Breathwork can sometimes evoke strong emotions or even trigger traumatic memories. Individuals with a history of trauma (or PTSD), particularly if they are not under the guidance of a trained therapist, should approach breathwork with caution. Trauma-informed practices and professional guidance are recommended in such cases, and when practiced safely, can be incredibly beneficial.

Epilepsy: For individuals with epilepsy, breathwork could potentially increase the risk of seizures. Breathwork techniques involve altering breathing patterns and rhythms, which can often result in changes in brain activity. People with epilepsy have a susceptibility to abnormal activity in the brain, and any significant alterations in breathing could potentially disrupt the balance and trigger seizures.

Psychological Conditions: People with certain psychological conditions, such as panic disorders, anxiety, or severe depression, should be mindful of the potential emotional and psychological effects of breathwork, particularly longer forms of breathwork that provide access to the subconscious mind. Breathwork can deeply affect your emotional state, and it's recommended that anyone with pre-existing mental health conditions consult with their practitioner before trying it to ensure they are aware of what they may encounter during a session.

Medications: Some medications can influence heart rate, blood pressure, or respiratory function. These effects might interact with the physiological changes induced by breathwork techniques. People taking ongoing medication should discuss their participation in breathwork with their healthcare provider to ensure it's safe and appropriate.

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They are the main ones, but if you have any condition that makes you unsure as to whether breathwork is safe for you, please check with a trained health (and breath) practitioner before engaging.

For most people it's incredibly safe and perhaps even transformative, but like all things, it's best to do your own research based on your own specific circumstances.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions.