Breathwork Glossary

Key terms and concepts related to breathing exercises, breathwork, and the Wim Hof Method.

• Pranayama: Ancient yogic practice of controlling the breath to regulate life force energy.
• Box Breathing: A 4-4-4-4 breathing pattern used by Navy SEALs for stress management.
• Diaphragmatic Breathing: Belly breathing technique that fully engages the diaphragm for deeper breaths.
• 4-7-8 Breathing: Dr. Andrew Weil's relaxation technique using a 4-7-8 inhale-hold-exhale ratio.
• Breathwork: Umbrella term for all conscious breathing practices aimed at improving health.
• Cold Exposure: Deliberate cold therapy that boosts immunity, mood, and recovery alongside breathwork.
• Tummo: Tibetan inner fire meditation that generates internal heat through breath and visualization.
• Breath Retention: The practice of holding the breath to build CO2 tolerance and trigger adaptation.
• Respiratory Alkalosis: Temporary blood pH increase caused by rapid breathing that lowers carbon dioxide levels.
• Autonomic Nervous System: The involuntary nervous system that breathing exercises can directly influence and train.
• Coherent Breathing: Slow breathing at about 5.5 breaths per minute that maximizes heart rate variability.
• Alternate Nostril Breathing: Yogic nadi shodhana technique of breathing through one nostril at a time.
• Buteyko Breathing: Reduced nasal breathing method that raises CO2 tolerance; studied for asthma symptoms.
• Holotropic Breathwork: Intensive 2-3 hour facilitated breathing practice that induces altered states of consciousness.