Should You Do Breathwork When You’re Sick?

This is a question I get asked regularly, and it’s a smart one to consider. Here’s my guidance:

When to Definitely Skip

Don’t do breathwork if you:

• Have a fever
• Are feeling significantly unwell or fatigued
• Are still in the acute phase of illness
• Are struggling with energy

When It’s Your Call

If you’re on the fence, consider proceeding if you:

• Are past the worst of it and fever-free
• Feel well enough to engage meaningfully
• Can participate without overexerting yourself

The Musical Journey Alternative

Here’s an option many people overlook: take a musical journey instead. It’s a completely valid alternative to the full breathwork process. Skip the fast breathing and practice gentle circular breaths within your comfort zone. Many people have powerful experiences from the music alone. And if you fall asleep? That’s perfectly okay—it will probably be a deeper, more restorative rest.

My Personal Experience

I’ve had situations where I had an upper respiratory illness or cold with lots of drainage, but otherwise had decent energy. In several cases, I went ahead with the breathing work anyway. Surprisingly, I found that the deeper, faster breathing actually opened my breathing up completely. It didn’t bother me at all during the session, and my breathing stayed clear for some time afterward.

The Bottom Line

Trust your instincts. Your health comes first. There’s no prize for pushing through when your body needs rest.