DMT breathwork and altered states of consciousness

Unveiling the Remarkable Benefits of Transcendence through Breathwork

Megan, Trauma-Informed Breathwork Facilitator & Teacher, Yoga Instructor, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Holistic Nutritionist, Reiki 2 Megan, Trauma-Informed Breathwork Facilitator & Teacher, Yoga Instructor, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Holistic Nutritionist, Reiki 2

Sometimes You Have to Lose Yourself to Find Yourself

A burgeoning body of evidence validates the enduring wisdom held by breathers, psychonauts, and spiritual seekers: experiencing moments where your sense of self fades away can significantly and enduringly improve your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. In the following, we’ll delve into transcendental experiences—what they are, how common they are, how they happen, the benefits they bring, and how they connect to Breathwork.

What Exactly Is Transcendence?

Throughout history and across diverse cultures and religions, experiences of transcendence, also known as ‘transcendental experiences,’ have been consistently reported in both scriptural and secular writings [1]. These moments are marked by heightened states of consciousness, expanded or altered awareness, and a profound connection to something beyond the self or ego.

There exist varying degrees of transcendental experiences, and a ‘peak transcendental experience’ or mystical encounter typically involves an expansion of perception beyond the confines of the human body and personal identity, transcending the limitations of space and time. These pinnacle moments often entail a sacred union or connection with the creator, the universe, God, the higher self, or the divine—whichever term one employs to articulate the source of being [2].

Individuals frequently return from such transcendental experiences with a transformed perspective, perceiving the world through a lens imbued with enhanced beauty, love, unity, and flow [3]. Moreover, they commonly express a heightened sense of connection to both life and self, accompanied by enduring feelings of vitality, serenity, equanimity, and meaningfulness. This profound shift is often accompanied by a reevaluation of life’s priorities [4], [5], [6].

How Are Transcendental Experiences Induced?

Transcendental experiences can manifest through deliberate or unintentional means. Involuntary triggers may arise from factors such as fasting, isolation, and intense physical or emotional events, including giving birth, acute personal crises, chronic illnesses, or the frequently reported inducer – near-death experiences [11], [12]. On the other hand, voluntary methods often encompass the use of psychedelics (particularly when employed in appropriate settings), raja yoga, vision quests, concentrative meditation (utilizing mantras or prayer), spiritual rituals, temazcales, sensory deprivation, and notably, Breathwork.

Numerous individuals describe peak transcendental experiences as the most personally meaningful and spiritually significant event in their lives [13], [14]. Research indicates that those who report having undergone such experiences exhibit notably higher scores on measures of psychological well-being compared to those who have not reported such encounters, and these effects endure over time [15], [16], [17].

Positive changes frequently observed encompass shifts in attitudes toward oneself, others, life, and consciousness; alterations in behavior and thought patterns; and an increase in life satisfaction, purpose, self-esteem, creativity, compassion, and personal empowerment [18], [19], [20]. Moreover, studies highlight the positive impact of transcendental experiences, at various levels, on the mental well-being of individuals dealing with conditions such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, terminal illnesses, the elderly (especially those facing mortality), and individuals recovering from substance and behavioral addictions [21], [22], [23], [24], [25], [26], [27], [28].

How Common Are ‘Peak’ Transcendence Experiences?

Studies indicate that around one-third of individuals may encounter a peak transcendental experience, characterized by a profound sense of connection to a higher source that transcends personal boundaries, at some point in their lives [7], [8], [9]. Importantly, research also indicates that the likelihood of having such an experience is not contingent on religious beliefs or spirituality. Even individuals who identify as agnostic or atheist may undergo such experiences, with approximately 25% of them reportedly having such encounters, as revealed by a specific study [10].

Physical Health Benefits of Transcendental Experiences

“Each alteration in the physiological state is paralleled by a corresponding change in the mental-emotional state, whether conscious or unconscious. Conversely, any shift in the mental-emotional state, whether conscious or unconscious, is accompanied by a suitable modification in the physiological state” [29]. In simpler terms, mental and emotional well-being impact physical health, and vice versa—a fact substantiated by compelling evidence.

Considering the profound influence heightened states of consciousness have on mental and emotional health, it logically follows that these experiences would also impact physical health. Substantial anecdotal and clinical evidence links transcendental experiences to the improvement of physical health and the remission of pathological conditions [30]. Moreover, a wealth of evidence establishes a connection between stress, anxiety, and depression and a significantly elevated risk of chronic diseases, heart attacks, compromised immunity, and impaired healing [31], [32]. Given that transcendental experiences often contribute to a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression, they may consequently play a role in mitigating the aforementioned health risks.

How Often Do Transcendental Experiences Occur in Breathwork?

Modern Breathwork, as recognized today, owes much of its development to the work of transpersonal psychologist Stan Grof. Grof was successfully using LSD to treat his patience with severe PTSD. When LSD became illegal in the United States, he formulated Holotropic Breathwork to induce non-ordinary states of consciousness that emulate psychedelic experiences, for the purpose of healing [33], [34]. Given its origins, Breathwork is consistently linked to an elevated state of consciousness and some degree of self-transcendence.

It’s important to note, however, that Breathwork doesn’t invariably lead to ‘peak’ transcendental experiences characterized by a complete loss of self and a sacred union with the source, as discussed earlier. There is no precise frequency with which a Breathwork session will result in these peak experiences, but a small study involving 134 participants found that approximately 10% of individuals may undergo such an experience during a session [35].

It is advised to approach Breathwork without specific expectations or an intent to attain a peak experience. The Breath naturally guides individuals to where they need to be, and enduring benefits such as heightened self-awareness, self-love, self-esteem, connection, meaning, and happiness are reported by practitioners regardless of whether they have a peak experience. This is particularly true for those who engage in Breathwork repeatedly and take the time to integrate their insights.

How Breathwork Alters States of Consciousness and Induces Transcendental Experiences

The precise mechanism by which Breathwork transforms consciousness and induces transcendental experiences remains uncertain. However, emerging evidence suggests the involvement of the psychedelic ‘spirit molecule’ DMT (N, N-Dimethyltryptamine). DMT is naturally occurring in both nature and the human body, recognized as the most potent psychedelic substance globally, and is the same molecule associated with the hallucinogenic and mystical effects of Ayahuasca [36].

Some proponents propose that the release of DMT during Breathwork may be triggered by hyperventilation-induced hypoxia (low oxygen) [37]. This explanation makes a lot of sense, because circular breathing causes us to breathe out more CO2 than usual. Lower CO2 levels, cause the pH of the blood to increase and the blood becomes more alkaline. Thanks to something called the Bohr effect, these two shifts, cause the blood to hold on more tightly to oxygen, so the amount of oxygen released to the tissues and organs is reduced. So by breathing more, we are actually reducing our oxygen levels in the brain and body.

Irrespective of the specific trigger for DMT release in Breathwork, the hypothesis itself provides a potential explanation for why Breathwork journeys so often mirror intentional psychedelic experiences and share many of the same benefits.

Whether DMT is released or not, the undeniable facts are:

  1. Participation in Breathwork has the potential to result in peak transcendental experiences.
  2. The majority of Breathwork sessions typically guide individuals toward some degree of transcendence, establishing a connection to both higher consciousness and the subconscious. Within this elevated state of awareness, rapid healing, transformative insights, and significant breakthroughs can unfold, empowering individuals as they recognize that everything they need is already within them.
  3. Individuals practicing Breathwork often report remarkable and enduring positive effects on mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, irrespective of whether or not they experienced a ‘peak’ moment.

Want to Experience the Incredible Benefits of Breathwork for Yourself? 

To join an in-person Group Breathwork Journey, or Book a Private Online or In-person Breathwork Session with me, reach out here.

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Megan, Trauma-Informed Breathwork Facilitator & Teacher, Yoga Instructor, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Holistic Nutritionist, Reiki 2
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