In this episode, Dr. Martha Havenith—neuroscientist, Oxford graduate, and one of the world’s leading researchers on Conscious Connected Breathwork—joins Joseph and Richard for a deep exploration of what breathwork actually does to the brain and body. They unpack the science, the lived experience, and the ethics of a rapidly growing field, providing an essential conversation for anyone who wants a grounded, evidence-based understanding of breath-induced transformation.KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy Martha is leading the most important research on Conscious Connected BreathworkWhat her first major study revealed about breath-induced altered statesThe bridge between neuroscience and transformative breathwork experiencesHow laboratory insights connect to real-world breathwork sessionsWhy breathwork lacks regulation — and why that’s dangerousThe rise of “unfalsifiable explanations” in wellness (e.g., “You were meant to have that psychotic episode”)Why blaming clients for negative experiences is unethical and unscientificThe difference between spiritual framing and scientific accountabilityWhat researchers are finding about breathwork safety, trauma, and emotional activationWhy breathwork is not just hyperventilationWhat actually happens in the brain during conscious connected breathingThe future of breathwork studies: what Martha is working on nextWhy the field desperately needs more evidence-driven voicesJoseph’s and Richard’s reflections on modern breathwork culture and responsibilityKey Topics & HighlightsWhy she’s leading the most important research on Conscious Connected BreathworkWhat her first major study revealed about breath-induced altered statesThe bridge between neuroscience and transformative breathwork experiencesHow laboratory insights connect to real-world breathwork sessionsWhy breathwork lacks regulation — and why that’s dangerousThe rise of “unfalsifiable explanations” in wellness (e.g., “You were meant to have that psychotic episode”)Why blaming clients for negative experiences is unethical and unscientificThe difference between spiritual framing and scientific accountabilityWhat researchers are finding about breathwork safety, trauma, and emotional activationWhy breathwork is not just hyperventilationWhat actually happens in the brain during conscious connected breathingThe future of breathwork studies: what Martha is working on nextWhy the field desperately needs more evidence-driven voicesJoseph’s and Richard’s reflections on modern breathwork culture and responsibilityDr. Martha Havenith is a neuroscientist and breathwork researcher with an academic background spanning Oxford University, University College London, and the Max Planck Institute. She is one of the leading scientific voices studying Conscious Connected Breathwork, conducting some of the most rigorous and insightful research the field has ever seen. Her work blends neuroscience, physiology, and real-world breathwork experience to bring clarity, nuance, and grounded science to a rapidly expanding — and often misunderstood — domain.Links:The Breathwork Handbook: Understanding, Practicing and Facilitating Breathwork Martha's InstagramMartha's Research Studies & Published PapersInterested in breathwork? Check out The RUNGA 90-Support the show

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