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USC Study Links Breathing Patterns to Emotional Health

2/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

University of Southern California (USC) researchers used Ecological Momentary Assessment to study breathing patterns in real-world settings.
Participants wore a Hexoskin smart shirt to monitor respiratory metrics, including breathing rate and air volume, for seven days.
The study linked breathing patterns to emotional states, providing continuous insights into how respiration correlates with emotions.
Findings support the potential use of breathing techniques in therapeutic interventions for depression and underscore real-world applicability.

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Story summary

University of Southern California (USC) researchers used Ecological Momentary Assessment to study breathing patterns in real-world settings.
Participants wore a Hexoskin smart shirt to monitor respiratory metrics, including breathing rate and air volume, for seven days.
The study linked breathing patterns to emotional states, providing continuous insights into how respiration correlates with emotions.
Findings support the potential use of breathing techniques in therapeutic interventions for depression and underscore real-world applicability.