Breathwork Contraindications & Safety
Breathwork Contraindications & Safety
At Roots & Rise Retreats, your wellbeing comes first. Some sessions include active connected breathing, which may feel physically or emotionally intense. Please let your facilitator know before booking if you are pregnant or have any of the following:
- A heart condition, recent heart attack or stroke, or uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Epilepsy, a history of seizures, or a condition that causes fainting
- A serious respiratory condition
- Recent surgery, a significant injury, or a medical condition affected by physical exertion
- A history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, severe dissociation, or a mental health condition that could be affected by an intense experience
If any of these apply, do not participate in active connected breathwork without first speaking with your healthcare provider and your facilitator. We can discuss whether a gentler breathing or meditation practice is appropriate for you.
During a session, you are always in control of your experience. You may slow your breathing, return to a natural breath, or stop at any time. Tell your facilitator immediately if you feel unwell. If you have unexplained chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or new neurological symptoms, seek medical care instead of attending a session.
Breathwork is a wellness practice and does not replace medical or mental health care.
Active overbreathing can cause lightheadedness, tingling, and chest discomfort; hyperventilation can also provoke seizures in some people with epilepsy. The screening language above is deliberately cautious because suitability depends on the person and the breathing technique used.