Breath-hold practice: how long, and how to stay safe
Many breathing styles end a round with a hold, such as Wim Hof breathing. How long you can hold varies from person to person and day to day. It isn't a contest, and longer isn't better.
▶ 5-minute Wim Hof, short holds
Know this first
- 1Never practise breath holds in water, a pool, a bath or anywhere near water.
- 2Always sit or lie down. Never hold your breath standing or walking.
- 3Don't chase records or compare times. When you want to breathe, breathe.
- 4If you feel dizzy or tingly, end the hold and return to natural breathing.
How the hold works in breathwork
- 1Finish a round of continuous breathing with the guide.
- 2Breathe the last breath out and hold, staying relaxed rather than straining.
- 3Beginner sessions usually start at 30 to 40 seconds; if you need to breathe sooner, that's completely fine.
- 4Take a big breath in, hold briefly for about 15 seconds, then breathe out.
Read this first
- 1Sit or lie down somewhere safe. Never practise standing.
- 2Never practise while driving, riding, bathing, swimming or near water.
- 3If you can't hold your breath any longer, breathe in. This is not a contest.
- 4If you feel dizzy or tingly, stop at any time and return to natural breathing.
- 5If you are pregnant or have a heart condition or serious health problem, ask a medical professional first. This is not medical advice.
Follow a session
Research on breathwork: SANCTUARI →