Question 1

What is Breathwork?

Accepted Answer

At its core, breathwork refers to various techniques and practices where the breath is intentionally influenced. It is about consciously using the breath to bring about positive changes in both body and mind.There are different forms of breathwork, ranging from gentle, relaxing techniques to more intense practices like connected breathing. Each of these techniques has its own characteristics and potential effects.People practice breathwork for a variety of reasons. In general, breathwork offers a wide range of benefits such as improved well-being, deep relaxation, self-protection, trust, inner clarity, and emotional balance.Breathwork is now recognized by modern science as a simple and effective method to promote overall health and well-being.In short: Breathwork literally means putting your breath to work :-)

Question 2

Is breathwork recognized by health insurers?

Accepted Answer

The Breath Fast Club is Qualitop certified. Your supplementary insurance covers part of the costs for individual sessions and subscriptions. The specific prevention benefits depend on the insurance conditions of your health insurer.If you’ve attended a breathwork session, private session, or a retreat with us, please send an email to hello@thebreathfastclub.ch with your insurance number and address, and we’ll issue the relevant form for you.

Question 3

What are the benefits of Breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Breathwork is a simple and accessible method for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, offering a wide range of benefits such as enhanced well-being, deep relaxation, confidence, inner clarity, and emotional balance. As a practice of consciously working with the breath, breathwork facilitates access to intuition and self-awareness. The breath connects us to ourselves and can create a place of calm within, from which conscious and sustainable decisions can be made. Regular training of the diaphragm, in particular, can improve breathing and help alleviate exercise intolerance in cases of chronic heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma. A consistent breathwork practice can also boost athletic performance and reduce post-exercise oxidative stress. After a breathwork session, most participants feel lighter, more focused, sleep better, and experience a sense of relaxation and calm—and, over time, also feel fitter.

Question 4

Are there any risks associated with breathwork?

Accepted Answer

In general, breathwork is suitable for everyone. However, like any practice that impacts our body and mind, breathwork techniques can be physically and mentally demanding.The key is to listen to your body, go at your own pace, and work with a trained practitioner if you're unsure.
Please speak with us beforehand if any of the following apply to you, or if you're unsure, to determine whether participation is advisable:
PregnancySevere asthmaEpilepsyGlaucoma, retinal detachmentRecent injury or surgical woundCardiovascular diseases, previous heart attack or stroke, or significantly elevated blood pressureSevere mental illnesses (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia)

Question 5

What are typical side effects and aftereffects of breathwork?

Accepted Answer

Breathwork can produce a range of physical, emotional, and psychological effects, both during and after a session. These vary depending on the technique used and individual responses. 
Some common effects include:
1. Physical Effects:Tingling or Numbness: Especially in the hands, feet, or around the mouth, due to changes in blood pH and CO₂ levels.Tetany (Muscle Cramps): Temporary hand or foot spasms caused by alkalosis during hyperventilation.Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Resulting from altered oxygen and CO₂ levels.Headaches: Possibly due to dehydration, muscle tension, or changes in blood flow.
2. Emotional Effects:Emotional Release: Sudden waves of joy, sadness, anger, or other emotions may surface and resolve during a session.Euphoria or Calmness: Many report feelings of relaxation, clarity, or bliss after breathwork.
3. Cognitive and Sensory Changes:Heightened Awareness: A sharper sense of connection with oneself or the environment.Altered Perception: Blurred vision or ringing in the ears due to blood flow changes during hyperventilation.
4. Aftereffects:Fatigue or Energization: Depending on the session's intensity, you may feel either deeply relaxed or highly energized.Reflections: A sense of clarity or insight into unresolved thoughts or emotions.
Listening to your body is a vital part of breathwork. Each individual responds differently to these techniques, and understanding your limits ensures both safety and effectiveness. Signs such as dizziness, excessive tension, or discomfort signal the need to adjust your breathing pattern, slow down, or take a break.While these effects are typically harmless and temporary, participants with specific health conditions (e.g., glaucoma, cardiovascular issues, or pregnancy) should approach breathwork cautiously. Don't hesitate to ask us, if you're unsure about any of these effects. Breathwork is an invitation to explore yourself on a deeper level. With the guidance of an experienced coach, you can fully benefit from its diverse positive effects.

Question 6

How do I prepare for a breathwork session?

Accepted Answer

Breathwork is a very accessible practice that requires basically no preparation. To fully relax into your breathwork experience and harness the power of the breath, here are a few simple tips:
Eating and Drinking: It’s helpful to eat lightly or not at all 1-2 hours before the breathwork session. A full stomach can make breathing more difficult. Also, drink enough water, but avoid excessive drinking immediately before the session.Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that allow you to move and breathe easily. Tight clothing can restrict airflow.Mental Preparation: Breathwork can trigger deep emotional processes. Enter the session without expectations and be open to whatever arises. Breathwork often works spontaneously and individually – be ready to embrace the moment.Special Health Considerations: If you have health conditions such as severe asthma, high blood pressure, have recently had surgery, or are pregnant, please consult with us beforehand to ensure that breathwork is suitable for you. For more information, see the section "What are the risks of breathwork" in this FAQ.

Question 7

Where do the breathwork sessions take place?

Accepted Answer

Every Wednesday at 6:00 PM at Downdog Studio, St. Jakobsstrasse 39, 8004 Zurich.As well as every second Tuesday at 7:30 PM at Serrat(u)s Studio, Zwinglistrasse 40, 8004 Zurich.

Question 8

Can I also book a private session?

Accepted Answer

Yes, private 1:1 sessions as well as group and team sessions for up to 20 participants are available for booking through us. You can find the registration form here.

Question 9

Which languages are the sessions available in?

Accepted Answer

Sessions can be held in Swiss German, German, English, or Spanish.

Frequently Asked Questions