Breath, Body, and Being: Psychisme in Contemplative and Therapeutic Practices

Abstract

Breath and embodied practices have been central to contemplative traditions and therapeutic modalities across cultures for millennia. This review investigates how the **interplay of breath, body, and mental experience—collectively informing psychisme—**functions within both contemplative and clinical contexts. Drawing on neurobiological research, psychological trials, and traditional mind-body practices, we elucidate mechanisms by which breath regulation and somatic awareness influence emotional regulation, self-awareness, and well-being. Key concepts such as interoception and respiratory vagal stimulation help bridge ancient practices like pranayama and modern interventions like mindfulness-based stress reduction, showing shared mechanisms involving autonomic balance and neural integration. Empirical findings indicate that breath-centered practices reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and enhance attentional and interoceptive capacities. We also review clinical applications—including PTSD and chronic pain interventions—and address methodological challenges in research synthesis. By situating breathing as both a physiological and experiential anchor of psychisme, this review advocates for integrative frameworks that unite contemplative wisdom with evidence-based therapeutic practice.