Study: „Slow Breathing Improves Arterial Baroreflex Sensitivity and Decreases Sympathetic Activity in Healthy Subjects“

• Authors: Bernardi, L., et al. (2001)
• Journal: Hypertension
• Key Findings: This study demonstrated that slow breathing (around 6 breaths per minute) significantly improves baroreflex sensitivity, an important regulator of blood pressure. It also decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which is associated with stress and anxiety.
• Relevance: Breathwork’s ability to downregulate the sympathetic nervous system and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for „rest and digest“) is one of the foundations of its calming effects.