AI Insight
A new brain-imaging study presented at the ECNP Congress in Munich found that intensive breathing exercises can reduce cerebral blood flow by up to 45% and significantly alter communication between brain networks. Participants reported psychedelic-like experiences including altered perception, vivid mental imagery, feelings of unity, and changes in self-experience. The researchers conclude that changes in brain network communication, rather than reduced blood flow alone, appear to drive these altered states of consciousness.
Why it matters
This research provides scientific insight into how breathing techniques can induce altered consciousness states without pharmacological intervention. Understanding these mechanisms could have applications in mental health treatment, meditation practices, and our broader understanding of consciousness and brain function.
Understand the Science
Intensive breathing exercises can reduce blood flow to the brain by up to 45% and alter communication between brain networks, according to a new brain-imaging study. Participants reported experiences resembling some effects of psychedelic drugs, including altered perception, vivid mental imagery, a sense of unity and changes in self-experience. The researchers, presenting the work at the ECNP Congress in Munich, say changes in brain communication, rather than reduced blood flow alone, appear to be key to the altered state.
Source: Intensive breathing linked to altered consciousness and brain communication