SOMA Breath teacher training review (2026)
An honest review of SOMA Breath's instructor certification. We cover the structured protocols, music-driven methodology, business model concerns, and how it compares to competitors like PAUSE Breathwork and Othership. Find out if this commercial-but-capable training is right for you.
SOMA Breath has established itself as one of the most visible breathwork certifications on the market. With over 2,000 trainers worldwide and a polished brand presence, it bridges ancient pranayama techniques with modern musical production. But visibility doesn’t always equal quality. Here’s our honest assessment.
Pros and Cons
What works well
- Structured Learning — Clear, step-by-step protocols that give new teachers confidence
- Music Quality — High production audio tracks designed for brainwave entrainment
- Accessibility — Hybrid model is flexible for working professionals
What doesn't
- Commercial Ecosystem — Constant prompts for memberships and tier upgrades
- Trauma Scope — Not a deep trauma-healing modality
- Marketing Focus — Brand prioritizes commercial growth aggressively
Pricing and Structure
At $999 for the base certification, SOMA positions itself in the mid-range market. The program begins with a three-day immersion followed by a minimum three-month online journey. The hybrid format offers flexibility, though prospective students should understand that much of the learning happens digitally.
Be prepared for upsells. The ecosystem includes higher certification tiers, monthly subscriptions, and “Inner Circle” memberships that are promoted throughout the training.
Business Model: Is It an MLM?
Let’s address the elephant in the room. SOMA Breath is frequently discussed for its aggressive marketing and affiliate structure. Some critics compare it to a multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme.
Our analysis: It’s a professional affiliate model rather than a predatory MLM. You do not need to recruit others to succeed as a teacher. However, SOMA is undeniably a commercial powerhouse. They excel at upselling trainers into higher tiers and monthly subscriptions.
For those seeking a pure, non-commercial spiritual path, this will be a deterrent. For those wanting a “business-in-a-box” with clear monetization pathways, it’s a significant advantage.
Safety and Trauma Awareness
The program is relatively trauma-aware due to its high level of structure. The precise protocols prevent the chaotic emotional overwhelm found in unstructured methods.
- Nervous System Regulation - Focus on rhythmic, grounding breathing patterns
- Controlled Environment - Facilitation techniques keep participants in a meditative rather than cathartic state
Important caveat: SOMA does not replace clinical therapy. For deep psychological release or trauma processing, methods like Holotropic Breathwork remain more appropriate.
Market Comparisons
SOMA Breath vs. PAUSE Breathwork
PAUSE Breathwork is a major 2026 competitor. PAUSE offers a six-month container focused heavily on trauma-informed coaching. While SOMA is about the “journey” and the music, PAUSE is about the facilitator-client relationship.
PAUSE is typically more expensive and requires a larger time commitment. Choose SOMA if you want to lead high-energy group sessions quickly. Choose PAUSE if you want deeper trauma-informed training.
SOMA Breath vs. Othership
Othership represents the modern “social” wellness trend, focusing on app-based daily practice and massive community events. SOMA provides more technical education in pranayama protocols.
Choose Othership if you’re drawn to the lifestyle experience and community aspect. Choose SOMA if you want specific technical methodology around breath retention and rhythm.
SOMA Breath vs. Holotropic Breathwork
Holotropic Breathwork, developed by Stanislav Grof, is designed for deep psychological exploration and emotional release. Training spans several years with multiple week-long residential modules.
SOMA’s hybrid model offers greater flexibility for modern lifestyles. However, Holotropic’s depth of psychological integration remains unmatched. Choose Holotropic if you want to work with trauma therapeutically. Choose SOMA for wellness-focused group facilitation.
SOMA Breath vs. Wim Hof Method
Wim Hof combines deep breathing with cold exposure for physiological conditioning and stress resilience. It’s intense and performance-driven.
SOMA takes a more rhythmic, meditative approach. Choose Wim Hof for physical resilience and biohacking. Choose SOMA for music-driven meditation and holistic wellness.
Who This Is For
- Wellness Professionals - Yoga teachers or coaches who want a plug-and-play system
- Content Creators - DJs or musicians who want to learn how sound affects the nervous system
- Structure Seekers - Those who prefer clear frameworks and concrete instructions over abstract concepts
Who Should Pass
- Clinical Specialists - If you want to work with severe PTSD or deep trauma, this training is too light
- Anti-Commercialists - If you find marketing-driven ecosystems distracting, the SOMA community will not align with your values
Final Verdict
SOMA Breath is a technically sound certification for the 21st-century wellness market. It bridges ancient techniques with modern musical production and offers clear business tools for monetization.
It’s a professional choice if you value systematic progression and want a ready-made framework for leading group sessions. Just be aware that you’re entering a brand-heavy ecosystem where commercial growth is part of the culture.
Bottom line: Good training, aggressive marketing. Know what you’re signing up for.
Still unsure? Check our extensive comparison of 20+ breathwork certifications.