What is Holotropic Breathwork?
A practice using accelerated breathing to access non-ordinary states of consciousness.
Benefits
- Accesses non-ordinary states for deep psychological healing
- Processes unresolved trauma, grief, and emotional material
- Can produce experiences of expanded identity and transpersonal connection
- Supports resolution of existential questions and life transitions
- Offers insight and integration unavailable through conventional therapy
What to Expect
Sessions are held in groups with pairs (one breather, one sitter) or individually. After an orientation, you lie down and breathe faster and deeper than normal while evocative music plays at volume. The session lasts 2–3 hours. Emotions, physical sensations, memories, and visions may arise. The sitter stays present but does not intervene unless needed. A mandala drawing and group sharing follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who developed Holotropic Breathwork?
- It was created by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof and Christina Grof in the 1970s as a legal alternative to psychedelic-assisted therapy.
- Is it safe?
- Holotropic Breathwork is contraindicated for cardiovascular conditions, epilepsy, pregnancy, and certain psychiatric diagnoses. Always complete a health screening with your facilitator.