Love At First Science Episode 83 Part 2 - From Hype to Healing: What Breathwork Gets Wrong with Patrick McKeown
What happens when we get breathwork wrong — and how can we use it wisely for health and balance?
In Part 2, Patrick and Hannah dig deeper into the nuances of breath practice, from hyperventilation methods to breath holds, and the role of carbon dioxide in nervous system regulation. Patrick explains where breathwork can heal, where it can harm, and how yoga teachers can cue breathing safely and effectively.
This half of the conversation is packed with practical takeaways, cautions, and inspiration to bring into both your teaching and everyday life.
We explore:
Why some popular hyperventilation practices may carry real risks
Breath holds: stress vs relaxation, and how to use them wisely
The role of CO₂ in blood flow, oxygen delivery, and calm
Breathing differences in women across the monthly cycle
Why breathing is the most powerful free tool for stress, sleep, and focus
About Patrick
To date, Patrick has worked with some of the top athletes in the world across a variety of sports including tennis, cycling, weight lifting, American Football, MMA and track and field. Patrick’s professional memberships include Fellow of The Royal Society of Biology, and Chairman of Buteyko Professionals International (BPI).
A TEDx speaker, Patrick’s work has touched the lives of thousands and more worldwide. His work has been published by leading publishing houses including Harper Collins (UK), William Morrow Press (USA), Red Wheel Weiser (USA), Sperling & Kupfer (Italy), Kanki Publishing Inc. (Japan). Journal publications include the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Journal of the American Orthodontic Society and Clinical Otolaryngology.
Patrick’s book, The Oxygen Advantage is an extension of this work, combining simulation of high-altitude training and specifically-formulated exercises which empower athletes to improve their sports performance safely, legally and at no cost. For the first time, athletes are afforded a reliable and accurate means to measure their progress using the Body Oxygen Level Test, enabling them to address poor breathing habits; understand in simple terms how oxygen is released to working muscles; and to practice breath hold exercises that naturally increase aerobic and anaerobic capacity.
The team at Oxygen Advantage have granted listeners to this podcast an incredible 20% off their Breathing For Yoga Instructor training Course - use code ALBA20 at checkout!
About Alba Yoga Academy
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