Imagine getting high without taking any illicit drugs. You can achieve that with a simple breathing technique known as ‘Breathwork’. It involves controlled breathing exercises that induce a state of euphoria, calmness, and relaxation by releasing the natural endorphins and serotonin in your body. Breathwork is a powerful tool that can help you shift your mind, relieve stress, and even manage chronic pain.
Before we dive into the ultimate guide on how to get high by breathing, let’s explore what breathwork is and how it works.
What is Breathwork?
Breathwork refers to various techniques of controlled breathing that promote relaxation, wellbeing, and spiritual growth. Breathwork can be done alone or with a facilitator, and it involves conscious breathing techniques that support deep emotional release and catharsis. Breathwork can be powerful medicine for emotional and psychological issues, and it can help on a physical level with ailments such as asthma and high blood pressure.
How Does Breathwork Work?
Breathing is one of the few bodily functions that we can easily control. Conscious breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the relaxation response in the body. When the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated, it releases endorphins and serotonin, which elevate mood, reduce pain, and promote relaxation.
Breathwork involves specific breathing patterns that induce an altered state of consciousness. These patterns can range from slow and rhythmic to fast and dynamic. The purpose of breathwork is to regulate the nervous system’s response to stress or anxiety, allowing the body to release tension, emotions, and negative energy.
The Benefits of Breathwork
Now that we have a basic understanding of what breathwork is and how it works let’s explore the benefits of breathwork:
Increased awareness and consciousness
Breathwork can help you become more aware of your mind, body, and emotions. When you practice breathwork, you are increasing your consciousness and awareness. You may become more present and mindful, as you will be focused on your breath and your inner experience rather than outside distractions.
Relaxation and stress relief
One of the most notable benefits of breathwork is that it can help your body relax and release stress. When you engage in breathwork, your body responds by releasing endorphins and serotonin, which help elevate mood, reduce pain, and promote relaxation.
Promotes emotional release and healing
Breathwork can help you release emotions that you have been holding onto, allowing for deep emotional release and healing. Breathwork can be an excellent tool for those who have suffered from trauma or chronic stress.
Enhances mental clarity
Breathwork can help you reach a state of mental clarity, allowing you to think more clearly and make better decisions. Breathwork can also enhance your creativity and focus, as it supports your brain’s functioning.
Increased energy and vitality
Breathwork can help increase your energy levels and vitality by promoting the release of oxygen in your body. When you breathe deeply, your body receives more oxygen, which improves your physical health and vitality.
Improved immune system and physical health
Breathwork can also help improve your immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins from your body. In addition, breathwork can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health.
How to Get High by Breathing
Now that we’ve discussed what breathwork is and its benefits let’s explore how to get high by breathing. Here are the steps:
Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down
Before you start, find a comfortable place either sitting or lying down. Ensure that you are in a place where you won’t be disturbed for at least ten minutes. Wear loose clothing, and make sure you are comfortable.
Set your intention
Decide on your intention for the breathwork session. Are you doing breathwork to feel more relaxed and calm? Or are you hoping to release emotions or find spiritual connection? Whatever your intention is, set it before you start to breathe.
Begin by breathing through your nose
Start by taking slow and deep breaths through your nose while keeping your mouth closed. Inhale slowly and deeply until your lungs feel full of air. Hold the breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through the nose, allowing all of the air to leave your lungs before taking the next breath.
Continue with rhythmic breathing
Once you have established a deep and slow breathing pattern, you can add some rhythm to your breathing. Inhale for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 4 and exhale for a count of 4. You can adjust the count to whatever feels comfortable for you but aim to have the inhale, hold, and exhale of equal lengths.
Add some movement
You can add some gentle movement to your breathwork session to help your body release tension and energy. You can try moving your arms, legs, or torso, in a slow and gentle manner, allowing your body to move to the rhythm of your breath.
Release emotions
As you breathe rhythmically, you may notice that emotions come up for you. Allow yourself to feel the emotions without judgment, and continue breathing. You may experience tears, laughter, or any other intense feelings that come up. Know that this is a normal part of the breathwork process.
End with meditation
Once you have finished your rhythmic breathing, sit quietly and meditate for a few minutes. Allow your body to integrate the experience, and notice how you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Take a few deep breaths before getting up and going about your day.
What to Expect during Breathwork
Breathwork can be a transformative experience, so it is essential to be aware of what to expect. Here are some common experiences you may have during your breathwork session:
Physical sensations
You may experience physical sensations such as tingling, heaviness, or lightness. You may also feel a change in your body temperature, such as feeling hot or cold.
Emotional Release
As you breathe, you may experience intense emotions. This is normal and healthy, and it is essential to allow yourself to feel the emotions without judgment. You may feel sadness, anger, joy, or any other intense emotion.
Altered States of Consciousness
Breathwork can induce an altered state of consciousness, which can feel like a sense of floating or detachment from your body. This is normal, and it can be a powerful source of healing and growth.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Try Breathwork
Breathwork can be beneficial for most people but may not be suitable for everyone. Those who shouldn’t try breathwork are:
- Pregnant women
- People with a history of severe psychiatric conditions
- People with high blood pressure
- People with a history of heart conditions
- Those with epilepsy or seizures
- People with breathing difficulties
If you are uncertain if you have a condition that might prevent you from safely practicing breathwork, please consult with your healthcare provider to determine if breathwork is right for you.
The Bottom Line
Breathwork is a simple but powerful technique for getting high by breathing. It can help you manage stress, release negative emotions, and promote overall wellbeing. You should give it a try if you’re looking for an effective tool to shift your mindset and elevate your mood. Consult with your healthcare provider beforehand if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breathwork
Here are some of the most common questions about breathwork:
What is the best time of day to do breathwork?
The best time of day to do breathwork is when you can dedicate ten to fifteen minutes of uninterrupted time to the practice. You can do breathwork in the morning to start your day off on the right foot or at night to unwind before bed.
How often should I practice breathwork?
You can practice breathwork as often as you’d like. Daily practice is ideal, but even once or twice a week can have significant benefits.
How long should a breathwork session last?
A breathwork session can last anywhere from ten minutes to an hour, depending on your preferences and schedule. Shorter sessions can be just as transformative as longer ones.
What kind of breathing pattern should I use?
There are different breathing patterns you can use in your breathwork practice. Experiment with different patterns to see which one resonates best with you. Play with inhale-exhale ratios, intensities of breaths, number of breaths per minute, and the length of breaths.