Breathwork Interventions for Adults with Clinically Diagnosed Anxiety Disorders: A Scoping Review

This scoping review analyzed 16 studies on breathwork interventions for adults diagnosed with anxiety disorders. Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, capnometry-assisted respiratory training, and heart rate variability biofeedback showed significant improvements in anxiety symptoms and panic severity. Effective interventions often targeted slow, deep breathing to enhance parasympathetic activity and emotional regulation. However, results varied due to inconsistent protocols and sample sizes. The findings support breathwork as a low-cost, accessible tool for managing clinical anxiety, highlighting the need for standardized practices to optimize outcomes.

Incorporating slow diaphragmatic breathing or guided breathwork into daily routines could reduce anxiety symptoms by calming the nervous system. Ideally, these should be practiced with a professional initially to ensure correct technique. While evidence supports breathwork’s efficacy, inconsistent methodologies in studies suggest combining it with other established treatments for robust results. Regular practice is key to achieving long-term benefits in anxiety management.