The Rhythmic Embodied Perception Framework of breath, brain, and perception.
Ralph Andrews1, Paul M Dockree1
1Trinity Institute of Neuroscience, Trinity College Dublin, Lloyd Building, 42A Pearse St, Dublin D02 R123, Ireland.
Neuroscience of Consciousness
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Breathing rhythms influence brain activity and perception. The Rhythmic Embodied Perception (REP) Framework explains how breath shapes conscious experience by modulating neural oscillations and attention.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Breathing's role extends beyond metabolism to influence perception and cognition.
- Existing frameworks lack a comprehensive model linking respiration to conscious experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose the Rhythmic Embodied Perception (REP) Framework.
- To explain how respiration rhythmically structures conscious experience by linking body and brain.
Main Methods:
- Neurophysiological analysis of respiratory modulation on cortical oscillations.
- Examination of perceptual-phenomenological correlates of respiratory cycles.
- Investigation of regulatory-attentional effects of volitional breath control.
Main Results:
- Respiratory cycles modulate cortical oscillations via cross-frequency coupling, influencing brain network excitability.
- Respiration creates transient perceptual pause states, enhancing sensory awareness and attentional receptivity.
- Volitional breath control stabilizes neural and perceptual dynamics, improving attention.
Conclusions:
- The REP Framework integrates neuroscience, perception theories, and contemplative practices.
- Respiration serves as a trainable mechanism for modulating perception and attention.
- This framework offers insights into embodied consciousness and potential therapeutic applications.
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