Hypoxia

A state of reduced oxygen availability in tissues. Some breathwork methods deliberately create brief, controlled low-oxygen states through breath holds; this is different from uncontrolled oxygen deprivation and requires caution. Breath holds after over-breathing can lower oxygen saturation markedly while the urge to breathe stays weak, which is why they belong only on dry land, seated or lying down. Mild drops recover within seconds once breathing resumes. People with heart, lung or seizure conditions should avoid long breath holds unless a doctor agrees.