Can Breathwork Be Harmful?

Breathwork is a powerful tool for healing, transformation, and nervous system regulation. But like any somatic or energetic practice, it’s important to ask: can breathwork be harmful?

The answer is nuanced. When practiced properly, breathwork is generally safe and profoundly beneficial. But for certain individuals or in certain contexts, it can pose risks. That’s why education and trauma-informed facilitation are essential—especially when working with altered states.

Let’s explore the potential risks, who should be cautious, and how to ensure you’re practicing breathwork safely.

Physical Risks of Breathwork

In most cases, physical risks from breathwork are minimal and temporary. However, more intense or extended sessions (such as holotropic or dynamic breathwork) can occasionally produce:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Tingling or numbness in the extremities

• Emotional overwhelm or dissociation

• Muscle cramps or tetany

• Hyperventilation-like symptoms

These effects usually pass quickly and are part of the body’s response to controlled stress or increased oxygen/CO2 fluctuation. But they can feel intense if unexpected or unsupported.

Psychological Considerations

Breathwork can surface deeply held emotions, traumas, or suppressed memories. This is one of its strengths—but it can also be destabilizing if someone is unprepared or lacks proper integration support.

Those with the following conditions should proceed with caution:

• Schizophrenia or other major psychiatric disorders

• History of severe trauma or PTSD (without proper support)

• Active addiction or unstable mental health

At Awakened Breath's flagship training program, The High Impact Healer, we emphasize trauma-informed facilitation in all retreats and trainings to ensure safety and grounded integration, even in powerful sessions.

Contraindications: Who Should Avoid Certain Types of Breathwork?

Breathwork may not be appropriate for everyone, especially the more activating or transformational styles. People with the following conditions should consult with a healthcare provider before participating:

• Cardiovascular disease, including uncontrolled high blood pressure

• Epilepsy or a history of seizures

• Glaucoma or retinal detachment

• Pregnancy (especially in the third trimester)

• Recent surgery or serious injury

• Use of psychiatric medications that affect neurological response

That’s why we screen students before deep sessions and always start with foundational practices.

Breathwork Is a Tool, Not a Cure-All

Some people come to breathwork expecting instant healing or relief from chronic conditions. While breathwork can be incredibly helpful in reducing anxiety, releasing trauma, and regulating the nervous system, it’s not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care.

Used correctly, breathwork can complement therapy, support healing, and build inner resilience. But it’s important to approach it as a practice—not a miracle.

Safe Practice Guidelines

To minimize risk and maximize benefit, follow these guidelines:

• Start with gentle, foundational techniques before exploring advanced styles

• Always practice in a safe, grounded environment—ideally with a certified facilitator

• Know your limits and take breaks if needed

• Avoid practicing intense breathwork alone, especially if you have medical or psychological conditions

• Honor your body and listen to its signals

At Awakened Breath, we teach a progression of breathwork—from foundational to transformational—ensuring students are prepared for each level with proper context and support.

The Bottom Line

Breathwork is a transformative, research-backed practice with immense physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. But like any powerful modality, it should be approached with respect, intention, and education.

For most people, breathwork is safe and deeply healing. For others, especially those with pre-existing conditions, proper screening and facilitation are essential.

If you’re ready to explore breathwork safely, whether for personal practice or professional training, we invite you to join us at an Awakened Breath High Impact Healer Facilitator training. You’ll learn the tools, techniques, and safety protocols to guide yourself and others responsibly.

This is essential to being a great breathwork facilitator and we cant wait to help you get there!

Be Blessed!