Simple, focused techniques

• Diaphragmatic breathing: Also called belly or deep relaxation breathing, this technique focuses on slow, deep breaths from the diaphragm to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

• Box breathing: This technique involves inhaling, holding, exhaling, and pausing for equal counts (e.g., 4-4-4-4) to create a steady rhythm for managing stress.

• 4-7-8 breathing: Aims to calm the nervous system by inhaling through the nose for 4 seconds, holding for 7, and exhaling through the mouth for 8.

• Alternate nostril breathing: A practice from pranayama that involves breathing through one nostril at a time, which can provide cardiovascular benefits.

• Pursed lip breathing: Often used for shortness of breath, this involves breathing in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips. ​

Intense and spiritual practices 

• Holotropic Breathwork: Developed by Stanislav and Christina Grof, this technique uses accelerated breathing to induce an altered state of consciousness for healing and self-exploration.

• Rebirthing Breathwork: A spiritually therapeutic technique that involves conscious, connected breathing to promote emotional release.

• Shamanic Breathwork: A practice that combines deep breathing with other ancient spiritual practices for intense healing and inner discovery.

• Transformational Breathwork: An advanced technique that expands upon other models and is considered a spiritual practice. 

Other methods

• Pranayama: This is the broad category of yogic breathing techniques, which connect breath and movement to promote physical and mental balance.

• Wim Hof Method: Combines breathing techniques with cold exposure and meditation to improve physical and mental well-being.

• SOMA Breathwork: A holistic approach based on pranayama techniques that aims to align breath with body and mind.