Which mystery tradition discovered that certain breathing patterns could induce mystical states?
The ancient Indian yogic tradition, particularly through the practice of pranayama, is credited with discovering the connection between breathing patterns and mystical states.
Pranayama techniques have been used for thousands of years by Indian yogis and mystics to transcend the mind and achieve altered states of consciousness.
The Vedic tradition, which predates classical yoga, also recognized the link between breath control and mystical experiences. Ancient Indian texts mention “silent ones” (muni) who could induce ecstatic states and were believed to be “possessed by the gods”.
