Few of us truly understand the power of breathwork, a practice that involves conscious control of breathing patterns. In shamanic traditions, breathwork has been used to induce trance states and facilitate healing journeys, and now it's now gaining scientific recognition for its profound effects on mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Well, if it’s good enough for our ancestors, it’s good enough for us at MBS!
Though we’re not bringing you the real Wim Hof – this time, at least - our festival in May brings you many breathwork practitioners. Read on for three breathwork practices, and find out the best slots for breathwork at our show below, and most of them absolutely free with a standard entry ticket.
If you’re really into breathwork, don’t miss the opportunity to train in breathwork facilitation with SOMA, a worldwide breathwork school brand. Scroll down for more info:
Popular Breathwork Techniques To Try At Home
1. Diaphragmatic (Belly) Breathing
This simple technique involves deep breathing into the diaphragm rather than shallow chest breathing. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.
How to practice:
- Sit or lie down comfortably.
- Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
- Inhale deeply through your nose, feeling your belly expand.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth.
- Repeat for 5-10 minutes.
2. Box Breathing (Four-Square Breathing)
Popularized by Navy SEALs, this technique improves focus and calms the nervous system.
How to practice:
- Inhale for 4 seconds.
- Hold for 4 seconds.
- Exhale for 4 seconds.
- Hold for 4 seconds.
- Repeat for several cycles.
3. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)
A yogic practice that balances the body’s energy and enhances mental clarity.
How to practice:
- Close your right nostril with your thumb and inhale through the left nostril.
- Close your left nostril with your ring finger and exhale through the right nostril.
- Inhale through the right nostril, then switch and exhale through the left.
- Repeat for several minutes.
Experience Breathwork at the Mind Body Spirit Festival
Discover the power of breathwork at the Mind Body Spirit Festival at Olympia London (May 23-26, 2025). Our favourite sessions will be:
Jamie Clements
Jamie Clements on the main stage at 11.45am on Friday 23rd May for Breathwork for Inner Alchemy.
Anthony Abbagnano
Alchemy of Breath with Anthony Abbagnano on the main stage at 2:45pm on Monday 26th May for Breathwork For Inner Calm and Transformation
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Ceremony Space
Explore the Ceremony Space tent for a Cosmic Breath Ceremony on Saturday 24th May at 3.30.
Our one-day course with SOMA
Upskill your soul and your CV with our one-day course with SOMA. Our Introduction To Breathwork Training with SOMA takes place on Sunday 25th May between 10.30am and 4.30pm, and will enable students to get a glimpse into the world of breathwork facilitation. This will suit beginners curious about breathwork and looking for an accessible way to explore its benefits, wellness enthusiasts who want to enhance their personal wellbeing with a guided breathwork practice and anyone interested in exploring altered states of consciousness and deepening their connection to self. No prior experience in breathwork is required—just an open mind and a willingness to explore the power of your breath. This certification will acknowledge their participation and foundational understanding of SOMA Breath techniques. Students will then be licensed to teach free sessions.
Loads more opportunities to connect with breathwork practitioners and communities.
Join us to explore how conscious breathing can transform your health, mindset, and spiritual journey. See you at the festival!
