We accept that there are many paths to well-being. Along those paths, there are many practices a person could undertake to improve physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Breathwork and mindfulness practices are two examples.
Both breathwork and mindfulness offer variations in terms of practice. But each has a set of defining principles at its core. That begs the question of how breathwork differs from mindfulness. To answer the question, it is important to look at four key points.
As we do, you need to understand that breathwork is an active practice, while mindfulness is considered more observational. This reality underscores the key differences between the two.
1. Practitioner Engagement
The first difference between the two is found in how practitioners engage. Because breathwork is active and manipulative, the practitioner intentionally participates in both body and mind. Breathwork focuses on intentionally manipulating breathing patterns in order to reach a desired physical and mental state.
Mindfulness is less physically active. Instead, the practitioner focuses their mind on the moment. Breathing is not intentionally controlled. Rather, practitioners are often encouraged to observe their breathing as an anchor to hold their attention.
2. The Primary Goal
Next up is the goal practitioners are hoping to achieve. The goal is more immediate with breathwork, thanks to its focus on physical activity to influence a physiological or emotional shift. As a breathwork practitioner, you might be looking to release trauma, boost energy, or even reset the nervous system. Either way, the goal is quickly tangible.
The primary goal in mindfulness is not so immediate. Mindfulness is intended to cultivate long-term awareness and mental clarity through nonjudgmental observations. The practitioner learns to be in the moment, at the moment. Over the long term, emotional stability and acceptance are expected.
3. The Physical Effects
One of the benefits of breathwork is that its physical effects are immediate and noticeable. Breathwork affects the autonomic nervous system by encouraging a transition from sympathetic (fight or flight) to parasympathetic (rest and digest). As such, it offers cathartic release.
Any physical effects realized from mindfulness are a lot more subtle. Mindfulness encourages the practitioner to become aware of their physical state – in addition to the emotional and mental state – without judgment. This allows the practitioner to calmly and rationally observe and accept whatever state he or she is in.
4. The Emotional Focus
An emotional experience is part of both breathwork and mindfulness. But yet again, there are differences between the two practices.
The emotional focus within breathwork can vary based on technique. But generally speaking, breathwork is a cathartic process that manipulates and releases stored-up emotions. This is why breathwork can be so helpful in releasing trauma and energy blockages.
The emotional focus in mindfulness reverts back to the idea of observation. Practitioners are encouraged to mentally step back and observe their thoughts and emotions as they arise, in the moment. At the same time, they are encouraged to not try to change or suppress what they do not like. They are encouraged to accept their thoughts and emotions at face value.
Room for Both Practices
While breathwork plays a significant role in what we do here at Maloca Sound, we do not promote it as the only practice for encouraging well-being. There are many paths to wellness. Your path might involve breathwork, mindfulness, or even something altogether different. It is all good, regardless.
Breathwork is more physical and active, while mindfulness is more mental and observational. Both can play a significant part in your drive to achieve physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
