Breathwork vs. Pranayama

As breathwork becomes more mainstream, I often get asked: Isn’t this the same as pranayama?

The short answer: they’re related — but not the same.
Let’s unpack the difference.

Pranayama: Ancient Breath Control

Pranayama is a practice that comes from yoga, rooted in Vedic and yogic traditions. In Sanskrit, prana means life force, and ayama means to extend or control.

It’s not just about the breath — it’s about directing life energy in specific ways, using disciplined, structured techniques. Traditional pranayama is deeply spiritual, often practiced with postures (asana) and meditation as part of a yogic path toward enlightenment.

Examples:

• Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing)

• Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath)

• Ujjayi (victorious breath)

Breathwork: A Modern Healing Practice

Breathwork, especially in the wellness world today, is a broader term. It often refers to conscious breathing techniques used for emotional release, nervous system regulation, trauma healing, or energy shifts.

Breathwork may draw inspiration from pranayama, but it also blends in psychology, somatics, neuroscience, and body-based therapy. It’s less rigid and more adaptive to the individual — with variations used in therapy, coaching, and wellness rituals.

Examples:

• Conscious Connected Breathing

• Box Breathing

• 4-7-8 Breathing

• Transformational Breathwork

So What’s the Difference?

In The Abi Method, we honor both: the structure of tradition, and the freedom of modern breathwork.

Depending on the client or setting, I may use techniques from both lineages — always with the nervous system in mind.