Breathe-well grounded theory: Self-discovery and personal growth in knowledge workers through well-being practices

Journal article, 2026

Knowledge workers often face high stress due to deadlines and overcommitment, which negatively impacts their well-being. They have specific characteristics and challenges, such as a tendency to work in isolation or in intense team environments, sleep deprivation, and making decisions under pressure.ObjectiveTo support preventive measures, this study provides a comprehensive, systematic understanding of the factors contributing to the well-being of knowledge workers in light of a specific intervention.MethodWe designed, implemented and evaluated a programme using breathwork to reduce stress, improve well-being and foster resilience. We conducted 43 semi-structured interviews and analysed them via Constructive Grounded Theory.ResultsWe propose the Breathe-well Grounded Theory with key concepts, principles, elements, dimensions, and interconnections that shape the lives and work experiences of knowledge workers, particularly in light of the applied breathwork intervention.ConclusionWe discuss our results in relation to well-known general theories on well-being. We conclude that breathwork interventions have a positive impact on the well-being of knowledge workers. We offer theoretical, research and practical implications that help knowledge workers improve their general well-being.