Inspire Physical, Emotional and Spiritual Transformation with Holotropic Breathwork

3 Powerful Practices for Experiencing States of Ecstasy and Bliss - Holotropic Breathwork

By Carolanne Wright

Contributing writer for Wake Up World

When LSD was deemed illegal in the United States, Stanislav Grof, MD, and his wife began looking for drug-free alternatives that would encourage altered states of consciousness. This lead to the development of Holotropic Breathwork, a technique that not only alters habitual perceptions, but also alleviates anxiety, addiction, depression, physical pain and other maladies. A powerful process, it has  been shown to radically shift lives for the better.

The beginning

Stanislav Grof began investigating transformative experiences during the late 1960s in Czechoslovakia. He was the principal researcher for the clinical study of a psychedelic drug produced by Sandoz Pharmaceuticals. Grof realized that many of the participants experienced a “non-ordinary state” that was “indistinguishable from those described in  the ancient mystical traditions and spiritual philosophies of the East.” Intrigued, he began a new discipline coined “Transpersonal Psychology” with colleagues Abraham Maslow and Anthony Sutich after relocating to America. Continuing his research, Dr. Grof became Assistant Professor at John Hopkins University and Chief of Psychiatric Research at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center in Baltimore.

In the late 1970s, Stanislav and Christina Grof developed Holotropic Breathwork. Dr. Grof recognized the most powerful way to trigger non-ordinary states of consciousness involved psychedelics. But he also acknowledged these substances carry serious risk. The Grofs found a solution by creating a method of using your own breath to  encourage altered states. By the early 1980s, they were traveling around the world, leading workshops and presenting lectures on the technique. To date, over 25,000 individuals have experienced this healing modality.

Holotropic method

Generally, the sessions are conducted in a workshop or group setting. During the class,  everyone pairs with a partner and each participant takes a turn as a “sitter” or “breather.” The sitter offers support throughout the session while the breather  navigates his or her own unique experience. Evocative music is played throughout the workshop. The breather lies down on a mat, relaxes and begins the process as instructed by the class facilitator. Suggestions include breathing in a circular fashion (without pause between breaths), rapid or deep breathing. The choice of breathing style is up to the participant. At the conclusion, a mandala is created by each person to reflect their experience.

Benefits

During the session, a diverse range of developments are possible. As a potent healing technique, strong emotions may arise. Feelings of sadness, trauma and grief are common. Joy, serenity and spiritual insight are also known to accompany the process.

Researchers and participants of Holotropic Breathwork believe it helps to transform:

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Trauma
  • Physical pain
  • Alcohol and chemical addiction
  • Low self-esteem

Additionally, heightened experiences of self-discovery, creativity, intuition, relaxation  and euphoria have been reported.  As with any form of therapy, it is important to consult with a trained professional. Holotropic Breathwork is not advised for those who are pregnant or suffering from  asthma, respiratory problems, high-blood pressure, heart disease or seizure disorders.

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Also by Carolanne Wright:

About the author:

Carolanne Wright

I’m Carolanne — a writer, chef, traveler and enthusiastic advocate for sustainability, organics and joyful living. It’s good to have you here. If you would like to learn more, connect with me at Thrive-Living.net or visit Twitter.com/Thrive_Living.

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