Effects of integral breath consciousness workshops on spirituality and health perceptions

Abstract

The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the effect of breath consciousness workshops on perceptions of spirituality and health. An integral psychological approach using quantitative and qualitative methods in a pre-and post-test, quasi experimental and control group design was used to assess changes in participants’ spirituality and health perceptions. Spirituality was quantitatively assessed on a standardized spirituality scale and health perceptions on a simple ten point scale ranging from severe illness to perfect health. Data collected from 40 participants in four experimental workshops were compared with data from a control group of 37 persons. Significant changes were observed in breath rate and spirituality perceptions. Although not quite reaching quantitative significant levels, qualitatively improved health was reported. The results are discussed in relation to previous and future research with regard to the influence of breath consciousness on perceptions of spirituality, health, psychological skills, stress and related phenomena.