Breathwork research by the numbers

Five numbers worth knowing

• g = -0.35

  Breathwork was associated with lower levels of stress than control conditions, a significant small-to-medium mean effect size (95% CI -0.55 to -0.14, z = 3.32, p = 0.0009).

  Source: Effect of breathwork on stress and mental health: A meta-analysis, PubMed Central

• I² = 42%

  Heterogeneity across the studies in that meta-analysis was intermediate and approaching significance (p = 0.06), so results differ between programs.

  Source: Effect of breathwork on stress and mental health: A meta-analysis, PubMed Central

• 12 weeks

  Well-being, resilience and self-compassion increased and remained stable over 12 weeks compared to baseline, regardless of group (ayahuasca or breathwork).

  Source: Self-Rated Effectiveness of Ayahuasca and Breathwork on Well-Being, Maastricht University

• £655/£870

  The listed price for two nights at one UK breathwork retreat, a market reference point for retreat costs.

  Source: Breathwork Retreats, The Retreat Company

• €50 off

  A subscriber discount one retreat marketplace advertises on a handpicked wellness retreat with a minimum stay of 5 nights.

  Source: 7+ Best Breathwork Retreats 2026, Longevity Escapes

Research questions

• Does breathwork actually work for stress?

  Published research supports it. A meta-analysis on PubMed Central found breathwork was associated with lower levels of stress than control conditions, with a small-to-medium mean effect size of g = -0.35 (95% CI -0.55 to -0.14, p = 0.0009). Heterogeneity across studies was intermediate, I² = 42%, so results vary between programs.

• Do the benefits of breathwork last?

  One study suggests they can. Maastricht University research on the self-rated effectiveness of ayahuasca and breathwork found that well-being, resilience and self-compassion increased and remained stable over 12 weeks compared to baseline, regardless of group. Lasting change usually also depends on continuing to practice after a retreat ends.

• Is breathwork as effective as psychedelics?

  One study compared them. Maastricht University researchers reported that well-being, resilience and self-compassion increased and stayed stable over 12 weeks versus baseline in both the ayahuasca group and the breathwork group. That is one self-rated study, not proof of equivalence, but breathwork requires no substances at all.

• What results do Andrew’s retreat guests report?

  This site does not publish guest testimonials or outcome figures for Andrew’s retreats. Instead, it cites published research on breathwork and stress, and points to Andrew’s own talks and films, such as "The Healing Power of Breath: Transform Your Brain, Body & Life," so you can hear how he teaches before you book.

• Is a retreat a replacement for therapy?

  No. A breathwork and meditation retreat is a practice and rest experience, not a medical or psychological treatment. Research links breathwork with lower stress, but if you are receiving care, keep it and tell your provider about your plans. Andrew has discussed this area on podcasts, including "Breathwork, Meditation & Mental Wellness."

• Can I come if I am stressed or burned out?

  Yes, and many people come to breathwork and meditation for stress. A meta-analysis published on PubMed Central found breathwork was associated with lower stress than control conditions, with an effect size of g = -0.35. Andrew has also made a film titled "New Study Reveals How to Beat Burnout!" A retreat is not medical care, so keep any treatment you have.

Read all 45 questions in the retreat FAQ