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Other common
name(s): none
Scientific/medical
name(s): none
Description
Breathwork is a general term used to describe a variety of
conscious breathing techniques that are used in many relaxation
exercises and spiritual healing methods.
Overview
Available scientific evidence does not support claims for
improving health; however, breathwork may help in relaxation and stress
reduction.
How is it promoted for use?
Focused deep-breathing exercises, such as exaggerating the way
you naturally inhale and exhale, are said to promote relaxation,
awareness, and emotional release. Shallow breathing can be a symptom of
stress of anxiety. The goal in breathwork is usually to take long, deep
breaths. These breaths are said to be "cleansing" in that they free the
body and mind from restrictions and release toxins that work against a
healthy state.
What does it involve?
There are many types of breathwork and facilitators. Depending
on the type of breathwork, the person usually lies down. Each session
can last for an hour or more. Breathwork may be done as part of a group
or in one-on-one sessions. Music may be included. Effects may include
sleepiness; tingling in the hands, feet, or face; and a sense of
altered consciousness that can be distressing to some. Unpleasant
feelings that surface are "breathed through" to free up energy from the
repressed emotions.
What is the history behind it?
Breathwork is a part of ancient meditation practices including
yoga. It has also been adapted in modern times to include many
different types of breathwork.
What is the evidence?
Available scientific evidence does not support claims that
breathwork can improve health. There are indications that it may help
in relaxation and stress reduction.
Are there any possible problems or
complications?
Breathwork is considered safe as long as it is done with a
skilled practitioner. Some people may find the effects distressing.
Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or
delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health
consequences.
Additional Resources
More information from your American Cancer
Society
The following information on complementary and alternative
therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be found on
our Web site (www.cancer.org)
or ordered from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
References
Kane P. What is breathwork? Relationship Transformations Web
site. Accessed at http://www.rebirthing.com/pages/breathwork.html on
May 23, 2008.
Radiance breathwork. Holistic Healing Web site. Accessed at
http://www.holisticmed.com/inner/breath/radiance.html on May 23, 2008
Raso J. The expanded dictionary of metaphysical healthcare,
alternative medicine, paranormal healing, and related methods.
Quackwatch Web site. Accessed at
http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/dictionary/md00.html
on Accessed May 28, 2008.
What is holotropic breathwork? Grof Transpersonal Training,
Inc. Web site. Accessed at http://www.holotropic.com/about.shtml on May
23, 2008.
Note: This information may not cover
all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or
interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is
familiar with your medical situation.
Last Medical Review: 11/01/2008
Last Revised: 11/01/2008
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