Breathwork Today

East Meets West

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 the 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 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.