16 Best Books on Breathing and Breathwork for Soothing Stress & Anxiety
/Breathing is more than just a basic survival function—it’s key to calming your mind, managing stress, and enhancing your well-being.
By learning how to do the right breathing exercises for you, you can tap into your body’s ability to heal and restore.
These 15 books on breathing exercises, breathwork, and mindful breathing offer practical tools and inspiration to transform how you breathe and how you feel.
Full disclosure - I’m author of ‘Breathing Exercises for Dummies’ and will include it at the end as a bonus.
1. Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
Let’s start with the best. James Nestor takes readers on a fascinating journey into the science and history of breathing in Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art. The book weaves personal experimentation with expert interviews to explore how modern breathing habits have impacted our health.
Nestor reveals startling insights, such as the way mouth breathing can cause everything from dental issues to fatigue, and how nasal breathing together with ancient techniques can restore and enhance your health.
What makes this book so engaging is Nestor’s personal dive into breathing experiments, including taping his mouth shut at night to encourage nasal breathing. His storytelling makes the science relatable, and you’ll find yourself nodding along as he explains why small changes, like extending your exhale, can create a ripple effect on your body’s stress response. It’s packed with actionable breathing exercises, making it perfect for those looking to blend curiosity with practice.
If you’ve ever felt out of breath from anxiety or stress, this book provides both reassurance and practical advice. Nestor’s key takeaway? Breathing properly—through the nose, slowly, and mindfully—can transform your health, whether you’re sitting at your desk or running a marathon.
I’ve met James in person and attend a retreat with him in the UK. He is the real deal and is just as impressive in person as he shines through in his brilliant book.
Read a full summary of Breath.
2. The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown
Patrick McKeown’s The Oxygen Advantage focuses on the hidden power of oxygen to optimise your physical and mental performance. Using his expertise in Buteyko breathing, McKeown explains how over-breathing (often a symptom of stress) can rob your body of oxygen and lead to anxiety and fatigue. Instead, he introduces techniques to retrain your breathing and unlock better energy and focus.
The book is full of practical advice, from simple nose-breathing exercises to advanced breath-holding techniques. For example, McKeown shares a breathing drill where you hold your breath briefly while walking, which helps train your body to use oxygen more efficiently. This practice not only builds resilience but also calms the nervous system, making it a powerful tool for both athletes and those dealing with everyday stress.
Whether you’re looking to boost endurance, sleep better, or simply feel calmer, The Oxygen Advantage is a practical guide. Its emphasis on the science behind breathing makes it ideal for anyone who wants to understand not just how to breathe better, but why it works so effectively.
Read Oxygen Advantage Full Summary Here
3. Breathing for Warriors by Belisa Vranich
If you’re navigating high-pressure environments, Breathing for Warriors by Belisa Vranich is a game-changer. Written with performers, athletes, and anyone under stress in mind, this book teaches you how to build resilience through breathing. Vranich, a clinical psychologist and breathing expert, provides a step-by-step guide to retraining your breath for strength, endurance, and mental clarity.
One standout exercise in the book involves diaphragmatic breathing, where you practise expanding your belly rather than your chest with each inhale. This technique not only maximises oxygen intake but also shifts the body out of fight-or-flight mode, helping you feel calmer and more grounded. Vranich also delves into posture, showing how the way you sit or stand can impact your breathing and your mental state.
Packed with clear instructions and relatable anecdotes, this book is a practical guide for anyone looking to stay cool under pressure. Whether you’re preparing for a big presentation or managing daily stress, the exercises here are a toolkit you’ll turn to again and again.
4. Just Breathe: Mastering Breathwork for Success in Life, Love, Business, and Beyond by Dan Brulé
Dan Brulé’s Just Breathe is a beautifully holistic guide to using breathwork as a tool for personal transformation. With over 40 years of experience in breath coaching, Brulé offers techniques that go beyond stress relief, touching on creativity, relationships, and even spiritual growth. The book is structured around accessible exercises, making it suitable for beginners and experienced breathwork practitioners alike.
One of Brulé’s standout exercises is the “breath reset,” which involves taking 10 deep, slow breaths to reset your mood and energy levels. He shows how this quick practice can be used in a variety of settings—whether you’re feeling overwhelmed at work or gearing up for an important conversation. These little “breathing moments” are a great way to integrate mindfulness into daily life.
Brulé’s conversational tone and wealth of experience make this book a joy to read. It’s perfect for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with their breath while exploring how it connects to all aspects of life. If you’ve ever felt like breathwork might be too rigid or complex, this book will prove otherwise.
Read the Just Breathe Book Summary
5. The Healing Power of the Breath by Dr. Richard P. Brown and Dr. Patricia Gerbarg
In The Healing Power of the Breath, Dr. Richard Brown and Dr. Patricia Gerbarg dive into the therapeutic potential of breathing. The authors, both experts in integrative medicine, explore how breathwork can alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. The book comes with a CD (or downloadable audio) featuring guided exercises, making it easy to follow along.
A highlight of this book is the Coherent Breathing technique, which involves breathing at a steady rate of about five breaths per minute. This rhythm has been shown to balance the nervous system, reducing stress and enhancing emotional resilience. The authors share stories of patients who’ve used this technique to manage panic attacks and chronic stress, making it clear how transformative simple practices can be.
This book is an excellent resource for anyone dealing with mental health challenges or looking for a science-backed approach to breathwork. It’s practical, compassionate, and offers hope to those seeking relief from life’s pressures.
Read the Healing Power of Breath Book Summary
6. Breathe: Simple Breathing Techniques for a Calmer, Happier Life by Jean Hall
Jean Hall’s Breathe is a visually stunning and highly accessible guide to integrating mindful breathing into your daily life. Perfect for beginners, the book is filled with straightforward exercises designed to help you manage stress, improve sleep, and cultivate a sense of calm. It’s the kind of book you can dip into whenever you need a moment of peace.
One of Hall’s simple yet effective exercises involves the “three-count breath.” You inhale for three counts, hold for three, and exhale for three. This practice is easy to remember and can be done anywhere—whether you’re waiting for a bus or winding down after a long day. The beauty of her approach lies in its simplicity, making it easy to incorporate into even the busiest schedules.
With its gorgeous illustrations and clear instructions, this book makes a wonderful gift for anyone new to breathwork. It’s also a handy resource for those who want to build a regular practice but feel overwhelmed by more technical or scientific approaches.
7. Breathwork: How to Use Your Breath to Change Your Life by Andrew Smart
Andrew Smart’s Breathwork is an engaging introduction to the transformative power of mindful breathing. Written in a friendly, conversational tone, it offers readers a roadmap to using breathwork for managing anxiety, boosting focus, and enhancing overall well-being. Smart breaks down complex ideas into relatable concepts, making this book ideal for those who are curious but unsure where to start.
One exercise Smart introduces is the “four-seven-eight breath,” where you inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale for eight. This simple technique helps to calm an overactive mind and bring your body back to a state of balance. The book also explores how consistent practice can lead to long-term improvements in mental clarity and emotional resilience.
Whether you’re looking to overcome stress or simply feel more present in your daily life, Breathwork provides a toolkit of practical exercises. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate a lighthearted yet informative approach to wellness.
8. The Wim Hof Method: Activate Your Full Human Potential by Wim Hof
In The Wim Hof Method, the man known as “The Iceman” shares his revolutionary approach to breathwork, cold exposure, and mental focus. Wim Hof’s method has gained international attention for its ability to boost energy, reduce stress, and even improve immune function. This book is ideal for those seeking a high-energy, challenge-oriented introduction to breathwork.
Hof’s breathing technique involves rapid, deep breaths followed by brief breath-holding intervals. For example, one exercise has you inhale fully, exhale halfway, and hold your breath for as long as is comfortable. It might sound intense, but Hof walks you through each step with enthusiasm and clarity. Many readers find the method invigorating and transformative, even after just a few sessions.
This book is particularly suited for adventurous souls who want to push their limits while improving mental resilience. Whether you’re an athlete or someone looking to shake up your routine, The Wim Hof Method offers a bold and exciting approach to breathwork.
9. Exhale: A Memoir in Verse, Self-Care, and How to Breathe Through What You Go Through by Whittney Ingram
Whittney Ingram’s Exhale blends poetry, personal reflection, and practical breathing exercises to create a unique and moving guide to self-care. Ingram invites readers to explore their emotions through the lens of breathwork, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a creative approach to managing stress.
One memorable exercise in the book involves pairing your breathing with affirmations. For example, as you inhale, you might silently repeat, “I am safe,” and as you exhale, “I let go.” This practice can be particularly helpful during moments of high anxiety, grounding you in the present moment while soothing your mind and body.
With its combination of artistry and practicality, Exhale is a breathwork book like no other. It’s ideal for anyone who enjoys journaling, creative writing, or reflective practices alongside their breathing exercises.
10. A Practical Guide to Breathwork by Jesse Coomer
Jesse Coomer’s A Practical Guide to Breathwork is exactly what the title promises: a no-nonsense, science-based manual for using breathing techniques to improve your mental and physical well-being. Coomer focuses on making breathwork accessible and achievable, whether you’re brand-new to the concept or looking to deepen your practice.
One of Coomer’s standout techniques is called “box breathing.” This involves inhaling for four counts, holding for four, exhaling for four, and holding again for four. This steady rhythm is particularly useful for calming the nervous system during moments of acute stress, such as before a difficult meeting or after a heated argument.
Coomer’s writing is relatable and down-to-earth, and his emphasis on practicality makes this book a great choice for anyone who wants to make breathwork a regular part of their routine. It’s a fantastic companion for navigating the ups and downs of everyday life.
11. Breathe, You Are Alive by Thich Nhat Hanh
Thich Nhat Hanh’s Breathe, You Are Alive introduces a beautifully simple and profound way to connect with your breath. The Zen master draws on ancient Buddhist teachings to show how mindful breathing can bring peace and presence to daily life. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to deepen their spirituality while managing stress and anxiety through breathing.
One of the core practices in the book is the “conscious breathing gatha.” For example, while inhaling, you silently say, “Breathing in, I calm my body.” While exhaling, you say, “Breathing out, I smile.” These simple affirmations, paired with breath awareness, help anchor you in the present moment and cultivate a sense of joy. It’s an exercise you can do anywhere—on a busy train or during a quiet moment at home.
With its gentle guidance and poetic wisdom, Breathe, You Are Alive is a treasure for anyone exploring mindfulness through breath. It’s not just a book; it’s an invitation to slow down and savour the gift of life, one breath at a time.
12. Dare to Breathe by Amanda Winwood
Amanda Winwood’s Dare to Breathe offers a heartfelt and empowering approach to breathwork. Combining self-care rituals with practical exercises, Winwood explores how the breath can be a source of healing and transformation. Her compassionate tone and relatable anecdotes make this book a comforting guide for those dealing with anxiety or self-doubt.
A memorable exercise from the book involves “flower breathing.” You visualise holding a beautiful flower, inhale deeply to take in its scent, and exhale slowly, as though you’re releasing tension. This simple visualisation, paired with intentional breathing, creates a calming effect that’s especially helpful during moments of overwhelm.
Winwood’s holistic perspective on breathwork makes Dare to Breathe a lovely choice for anyone interested in combining mindfulness with self-compassion. The book’s gentle encouragement will inspire you to breathe through life’s challenges with grace and courage.
13. Science of Breath by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, and Alan Hymes
Science of Breath bridges the gap between ancient yogic wisdom and modern science. Written by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, and Alan Hymes, the book delves into the physiological and spiritual aspects of breathing. It’s a rich resource for those who want to understand not just how breathing works, but why it’s so powerful for improving mental and physical health.
One of the book’s highlights is its explanation of alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana). This yogic practice involves breathing in through one nostril while closing the other and then switching. The authors explain how this technique balances the brain’s hemispheres, promoting relaxation and focus. The clear instructions make it easy to try this practice for yourself.
For anyone interested in the intersection of breathwork and spiritual growth, Science of Breath is an essential read. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to explore breathwork beyond the basics and into its deeper dimensions.
14. The Art of Breathing: The Secret to Living Mindfully by Danny Penman
Danny Penman’s The Art of Breathing combines mindfulness and breathwork into a practical, accessible guide. Penman, co-author of the bestselling Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World, brings the same clarity and warmth to this solo project. The book is a gentle invitation to slow down and reconnect with the present moment through the breath.
One exercise Penman shares is the “breathing anchor.” You simply focus on the physical sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. This simple yet profound practice can help you let go of rumination and anxiety, especially during difficult times. It’s a reminder that your breath is always there to ground you, no matter what life throws your way.
Penman’s approachable writing style and emphasis on mindfulness make this book an excellent choice for beginners. It’s a soothing guide to living more peacefully, one mindful breath at a time.
15. Breath: Mindfulness for a Busy Life by Donna Farhi
Donna Farhi’s Breath: Mindfulness for a Busy Life is a thoughtful and practical guide to integrating mindful breathing into your everyday routine. Farhi, a renowned yoga teacher and author, explores the connection between breath and overall well-being, offering a variety of exercises to support mental clarity, emotional balance, and physical health.
One of the standout practices in the book is the “sigh breath.” Farhi encourages readers to take a deep inhale and then exhale audibly, as though releasing a big sigh of relief. This simple exercise is a great way to quickly let go of tension, whether you’re stuck in traffic or feeling frazzled at work. It’s a reminder that even the busiest days can include moments of mindful breathing.
With its practical tips and gentle encouragement, Breath: Mindfulness for a Busy Life is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate breathwork into their daily schedule. Farhi’s holistic approach ensures that you’ll find something valuable, whether you’re seeking stress relief or a deeper connection to your breath.
16. Breathe In, Breathe Out by Stuart Sandeman
Stuart Sandeman’s Breathe In, Breathe Out is an empowering guide to using your breath to create positive change in your life. Sandeman, a globally recognised breath coach, combines personal stories, scientific insights, and practical techniques to help readers harness the power of breathwork. His approach is down-to-earth, making complex concepts feel accessible and actionable. Whether you’re dealing with stress, emotional challenges, or simply looking to optimise your well-being, this book offers a roadmap to transformation.
One of the standout features of this book is Sandeman’s “Breathing Toolkit,” a collection of exercises designed for real-life situations. For instance, his 4-4-4-4 breathing technique—breathe in for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, and hold again for four—can be a game-changer in moments of anxiety. Sandeman explains how this simple practice helps regulate the nervous system, creating a sense of calm and focus in just a few minutes. What sets his exercises apart is their adaptability; you can use them at home, at work, or even during a hectic commute.
Sandeman’s relatable tone and practical advice make this book a must-read for anyone curious about breathwork. His blend of science, mindfulness, and personal anecdotes keeps the content engaging and inspiring. Breathe In, Breathe Out is particularly valuable if you’re new to breathwork but want a guide that’s both informative and easy to follow. It’s more than just a book—it’s a toolkit for managing life’s ups and downs, one mindful breath at a time.
Bonus: Breathing Exercises for Dummies
Breathing Exercises for Dummies is your one-stop, practical handbook for discovering the full power of your breath. Written in the accessible For Dummies style, the book breaks down complex science into simple, easy-to-follow guidance so that anyone—from complete beginner to experienced practitioner—can benefit.
What makes this book unique is its breadth. You’ll find more than 50 different exercises drawn from ancient traditions like yoga and qigong, as well as modern approaches like Buteyko, coherent breathing, and HRV biofeedback. Each exercise is explained step-by-step, with clear benefits listed so you can choose the right practice for your goals—whether that’s calming anxiety, improving sleep, boosting focus, or enhancing athletic performance.
One of the standout features is how practical and adaptable the book is. For example, you’ll learn simple techniques such as box breathing for managing stress in the middle of a busy workday, as well as more advanced practices like resonance frequency breathing to optimise heart–brain coherence. Alongside the exercises, the book shares scientific insights into why these methods work, helping you understand not just the “how” but also the “why” of effective breathing.
If you’ve ever wondered how to use your breath as a free, always-available tool for health and well-being, this book gives you the full roadmap. It’s packed with tips, troubleshooting advice, and even ways to make breathing fun and creative.
The key takeaway? However you’re breathing now, small changes—like slowing down, breathing through your nose, or lengthening your exhale—can create profound shifts in how you feel, think, and live.
Full disclosure: I’m the author of Breathing Exercises for Dummies, and I wrote it with the intention of making breathwork accessible, enjoyable, and effective for everyone. If you want a comprehensive toolkit of breathing practices you can use for the rest of your life, this book is for you.
Find out more and order Breathing Exercises for Dummies here
Final Thoughts
Breathing is one of the most accessible tools for improving your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. These books on breathing exercises and breathwork offer a wealth of wisdom and practical guidance, whether you’re new to the practice or looking to deepen your knowledge. From ancient techniques to modern science, these books provide the tools you need to reduce stress, soothe anxiety, and breathe your way to a calmer, more balanced life.
Which of these books resonates most with you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation—and the breath—flowing!
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