What is Breathwork & Why is it Important?

Written By Mick Allen

Breathing With Purpose

Breathing is something we all do, about 20,000 times a day, yet most of us rarely think about it. What if the way you breathe could change the way you feel, recover, and perform? That’s where breathwork comes in. More than just “taking a deep breath,” breathwork is the intentional practice of using specific breathing techniques to influence your physical, mental, and emotional state.

In this post, we’ll explore what breathwork is, the science behind it, and why it matters for your health, performance, and overall wellbeing.

What Is Breathwork?

Breathwork refers to a range of controlled breathing techniques designed to improve wellbeing. Unlike unconscious breathing, breathwork is intentional and often practiced as a tool for:

  • Relaxation and stress reduction

  • Physical recovery and performance

  • Emotional release and self-awareness

  • Improved focus and mental clarity

Different styles exist, from slow, calming practices like diaphragmatic breathing to energising techniques like Wim Hof Method or holotropic breathing. Each has unique benefits, but the common thread is simple: you learn to use your breath as a tool.

The Science Behind Breathwork

Breathwork works because breathing is directly linked to your autonomic nervous system (ANS) the system that controls stress (sympathetic) and relaxation (parasympathetic).

  • Slow, deep breaths activate the parasympathetic system, lowering heart rate, calming the mind, and reducing cortisol (the stress hormone).

  • Fast, powerful breaths stimulate the sympathetic system, boosting energy, focus, and resilience.

Research has shown that regular breathwork can:

  • Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

  • Improve heart rate variability (a marker of recovery and resilience)

  • Enhance sleep quality

  • Support athletic recovery and performance

Why Breathwork Matters

Breathwork isn’t just a wellness trend. It’s a practical, science-backed practice that impacts almost every aspect of life:

1. Stress Management

In a world where chronic stress is the norm, breathwork is a simple tool to calm the body and mind, no equipment required.

2. Improved Recovery & Performance

Athletes and high performers use breathwork to speed up recovery, balance oxygen and CO₂ levels, and sharpen mental focus.

3. Better Sleep

By calming the nervous system before bed, breathwork can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest.

4. Emotional Wellbeing

Breathwork practices help release stored tension or emotions, creating space for self-awareness and resilience.

5. Everyday Energy & Clarity

Even just 1–2 minutes of conscious breathing during the workday can reset your focus and improve productivity.

Final Thoughts: Why It Matters

Breathwork bridges the gap between body and mind. It’s free, accessible, and backed by science, making it one of the most powerful tools for stress, recovery, and resilience.

Whether you’re an athlete, a professional under pressure, a parent or simply looking for better sleep and balance, breathwork gives you a way to take control of your state in any moment.

Mick Allen