Side Effects of High Ventilation Breathwork: A Naturalistic Online Survey on Prevalence, Time Course, and Predictors
Open MIND May 28, 2026 Josephine Jörke, Lena Erdmann, Michael A. Rapp et al.
High ventilation breathwork (HVB) can reliably induce altered states of consciousness similar to those produced by psychedelics and has shown positive effects on mental health, yet its safety profile remains poorly characterized. This project will conduct a longitudinal online survey in which participants report on a recent HVB session (within nine days), including side effects, subjective experiences, contextual factors, and demographic and risk-related variables. Side effects are classified as acute (during or directly after the breathing phase), subacute (within 48 hours), and delayed (48 hours to three weeks). Prevalence rates will be estimated as percentages, and hierarchical multiple regression will predict side effect severity. The goal is to inform evidence-based guidelines for responsible HVB use.