Cyclical Breath: A Hypothesis-Driven Framework For Investigating The Neurophysiological Effects Of Conscious Connected Breathwork Across The Menstrual Cycle.

Although conscious connected breathwork (CCB) continues to grow in popularity as a practice used for nervous system regulation, stress reduction, and emotional well-being, little is known about how its effects and experiences may vary across the menstrual cycle. Existing research indicates that breathwork, including different conscious connected breathwork (CCB) techniques, can influence autonomic nervous system activity and emotional regulation (Fincham et al., 2023), however the role of female hormonal fluctuations in shaping these responses remains largely unexplored. This discussion paper proposes a hypothesis-driven framework for investigating the interaction between CCB techniques and the menstrual cycle phases, suggesting that different levels of estrogen, progesterone and other reproductive hormones may mediate or modulate the physiological and psychological experiences and outcomes of CCB practices. Drawing on current scientific literature and practitioner observations, this discussion paper outlines three primary research questions for future empirical study: (1) How do autonomic and affective responses to CCB vary across the menstrual phases? (2) Do hormonal fluctuations mediate the magnitude or direction of CCB effects? (3) Can phase-specific adaptations improve autonomic and emotional regulation, well-being outcomes and the subjective experience of the CCB process compared to non-tailored breathwork methods? The proposed research framework suggests a mixed-method approach, integrating self-report, physiological and psychological measures and hormonal markers, in order to identify possible phase-related changes to CCB experiences and outcomes across the menstrual cycle. By outlining this hypothesis-driven framework, this paper aims to start conversations and invite collaboration with researchers and clinicians interested in women's health, psychophysiology, somatic therapies and holistic well-being.