17/06/2026
Me thinking of being somewhere warm and BREATH HOLDS.
Most people assume our urge to breathe is driven by a lack of oxygen.
It's not.
Our desire to breathe is primarily regulated by rising levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood. Specialised receptors in the brainstem constantly monitor these levels, sending signals that influence the rate and depth of each breath.
When carbon dioxide rises, the body responds by encouraging us to breathe more deeply and more frequently. When levels fall, our breathing naturally slows.
What's fascinating is that many of us unconsciously hold our breath throughout the day without realising it.
While responding to emails.
During stressful conversations.
When concentrating intensely.
While scrolling our phones.
These subtle breath holds can contribute to tension, increased stress responses, disrupted sleep, fatigue, and a nervous system that remains stuck in a state of vigilance.
But what happens when we consciously choose to hold our breath?
Everything changes.
Intentional breath holds, practiced safely and with awareness, expose the body to controlled increases in carbon dioxide. Over time, this can improve our tolerance to CO₂, teaching the nervous system that discomfort does not always equal danger.
The result is greater resilience.
Benefits of breath hold training may include:
• Improved tolerance to stress and discomfort
• Increased nervous system regulation
• Greater focus and mental clarity under pressure
• Enhanced oxygen efficiency and delivery to tissues
• Improved recovery and exercise performance
• A stronger mind-body connection
Perhaps most importantly, breath holds teach us to remain calm in situations where our instinct is to react.
Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is pause, hold, and discover that we are stronger than we thought.
I am teaching breath holds in my next series of group breathworks on Tuesdays 5:00 pm commencing June 23rd. Perth Natural Health Clinic, 953 Wellington St, West Perth
Comment HOLD for more information