Understanding how breathing, specifically Sudarshan Kriya Yoga – RP (also known as SKY Breath and related practices) regulates it. stress requires consideration of its effects on the body’s hormonal and neuroendocrine systems. In addition to direct communication with the sympathetic nervous system (activates the body’s fight-or-flight response) and the opposing parasympathetic nervous system (slows the body down, restores calmness, and promotes recovery, healing, and long-term support. endurance) as discussed in a previous postrespiration is also linked to other hormone-regulating systems.(1)
Also key to this process is the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).(2) When chronically activated, this system can disrupt mood, immunity, and metabolic stability. By reducing stress hormones, restore balance and those associated with recovery and emotional well-being, including prolactin and oxytocin.(5,6,7,8)
Chronic stress sets off a predictable cascade: the hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland to release ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol. Although this response is adaptive in acute situations, sustained elevations in cortisol contribute to emotional exhaustion, sleep disturbances, and systemic inflammation.(1) Emerging research suggests that SKY Breath can moderate these hormones to increase what we call “well-being” and tie up reduces hormones (prolactin, oxytocin) and chronic stress hormones. The result: a body better equipped to rest, recover, and resist.(7,8)
This is what it looks like in the picture endocrine system? When the brain senses a threat, the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), which stimulates the adrenal glands to release cortisol.(2,3) Cortisol is needed in the short term; it mobilizes energy reserves, heightens awareness and suppresses non-essential functions. But when elevated cortisol persists chronically, it causes wear and tear: mood disorders, immune suppression, metabolic dysregulation, and cardiovascular stress.(2,3)
Several studies report significant reductions in cortisol and ACTH following SKY practice. For example (6-9): In the study of subjects alcoholic beverages addiction, SKY participants showed significantly greater reductions in cortisol and ACTH over two weeks compared to controls.(8,9) Another study of undergraduate medical students found significant reductions in serum cortisol levels following SKY sessions before exams (10). A review of the broader narrative concluded that SKY “modulates the HPA axis” and thus plays a role in reducing the fight-or-flight hormonal state.
Less discussed in basic stress physiology, but increasingly relevant, are hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin, which increase SKY. One study of the neurophysiological effects of SKY reported increases in prolactin and oxytocin, which promote feelings of calmness and social connection. Research shows that SKY releases prolactin, vasopressin, and oxytocin via vagal afferents to the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary.
Why is this important? Because these hormones are linked to parasympathetic activation, emotional regulationconnectivity and resilience. The change is not just “less stress hormones” but “more recovery/regulatory hormones”. In practice, this means that regular use of SKY breath can not only reduce the negative burden of cortisol/ACTH, but also create a positive substrate of resilience and emotional well-being.
What does this mean for someone interested in changing stress hormones? This can be a low-barrier, non-drug solution to entry. In several studies, Sudarshan Kriya Yoga or SKY Breath has shown measurable changes in stress chemistry in the body. These results mirror those of larger studies: SKY regulates the HPA axis, the body’s central stress response system, by turning off the fight-or-flight signal and enhancing relaxation. vagus nerve. In turn, the body releases more “feel-good” and “bonding” hormones like oxytocin and prolactin, creating a hormonal environment that supports trust, empathy, and recovery.(6,7,8)
This balancing effect was particularly noticeable in clinical settings. In a study of recovered people depression, worryand substance use, SKY practice not only lowers cortisol and ACTH levels, but also improves mood and sleep quality—a standard benefit therapy did not produce alone. Even a single session of SKY has been shown to reduce stress hormone levels and show signs of increased immune strength such as IgG antibodies, a technique that promotes mental and physical resilience (6,7,8,9,10,11,12).
In everyday terms, this means that working out with SKY is more than a relaxing exercise; it’s a way to reset your body’s stress thermostat. A few minutes of rhythmic breathing can instantly calm the mind, while consistent practice gradually teaches the body to recover from stress more quickly, regulate emotions more easily, and conserve energy throughout the day. Whether you’re a doctor helping patients deal with chronic stress or someone who just wants to feel balanced, breathing like this offers a science-based way to balance your hormones and your life.
