An alternating breathing pattern significantly affects the brain functional connectivity and mood states.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

To explore the impact of different breathing patterns on brain connectivity and emotional states.

Methods

We recruited 31 participants with an average age of 19 years. They were instructed to perform controlled breathing, including calm, shallow, deep, and alternating deep and shallow breathing patterns. We employed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to investigate disparities in the effects of multiple breathing patterns on the brain. Meanwhile, we captured the participants' facial expressions and vital signs.

Results

There were significant variations in the effects of four breathing patterns on functional connectivity between brain regions, facial expressions, and vital signs. The four breathing patterns impacted six brain regions. Among them

SUBMITTER: Duan Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12040909 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature