History and Origins of Breathwork

Since ancient times, the breath has been a central theme in many spiritual and religious traditions, both literally and figuratively. The Hindu word prana signifies breath, wind, and air, the vital life force; in ancient Greek, pneuma meant breath, soul and the spirit of life: and in ancient Hebrew, ruach meant both the breath and the creative spirit. In Western thought, the link between breath and spirit is expressed in Genesis 2:7, “And God formed man of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul.”

The relationship between the breath and the state of our health, and even certain states of consciousness, has been explored for thousands of years through yoga and Taoism as well as through the medical and meditative practices of India, Tibet and China. These ancient cultures have long recognized the breath as a primary vehicle for prana (“life energy”) as well as being a vital link in the mind/body continuum. For centuries, these cultures have worked with the breath to harness and direct prana as a means of facilitating healing and self-development. These Eastern practices have evolved over the centuries into a sophisticated meditative science often referred to as “the science of breath.” Among the best-known forms are Vipassana meditation, Pranayama, Qigong and Tai Chi., with Pranayama being perhaps the most familiar to Westerners.

Despite its proven value for healing and self-development, until recently the practice of Pranayama has not been utilized in Western culture. The vast and ancient knowledge associated with the science of breath has traditionally been a closely guarded secret, shared only with a few select students.

Today, the cultural lines between the East and West are becoming less distinct. The respective cultures are learning from each other, combining, and synthesizing acquired knowledge. Teachings that were once reserved for a select few in the mother culture are being openly offered to anyone in any culture who is ready to receive them.

This cultural metamorphosis has given birth to a variety of breath-related techniques and therapies throughout the West. These innovative breathwork therapies are best known for their ability to initiate personal healing and transformation and are quickly becoming an important element of the human potential movement. Most approaches to breathwork share the common elements of deep rhythmic breathing, evocative music, bodywork, guided imagery, and affirmations. Some methods encourage strong emotional and physical catharsis, while others advocate a more subtle release by incorporating techniques based on mindfulness meditation.

Originally the science of breath was an oral tradition taught by skilled teachers who carefully monitored the physical, emotional and psychological health of their students as they experienced various stages of healing and transformation. Some of these practices can trigger strong physical and emotional cleansing, possibly resulting in unexpected side effects. Because of this, breathwork should not be used by itself, but rather should be part of a systematic approach which encompasses other supportive techniques that serve as a container for integration. It is highly recommended that one seek out the guidance of a competent teacher before engaging in any breathwork technique. Breathwork has powerful potential as a therapeutic practice and, when used wisely, can have astonishing effects on consciousness, physical health and well-being.