HOLOTROPIC BREATHWORK is a powerful experiential approach to self-exploration, personal transformation, spiritual awareness, inquiry and healing. It integrates insights from modern consciousness research, anthropology, various depth psychologies, transpersonal psychology,
Eastern spiritual practices, and mystical
traditions of the world.
It was developed by Stanislav Grof, MD and Christina Grof, two leading pioneers in the field of Transpersonal Psychology. Holotropic means literally "moving toward wholeness" from the Greek "holos" - whole, and "trepein" -
moving in the direction of something.
A very important concept in this work if the inner healing intelligence that operates within the human psyche, "inner healer". "The process of self exploration and therapy in Holotropic Breathwork is spontaneous and autonomous; it is governed by the inner healing intelligence of the breather, rather than guided by a therapist following the principles of a particular school of psychotherapy". As facilitators we are "midwives" to what arises from within the breather.
The process itself uses very simple means; it combines accelerated breathing with evocative music in a special setting. With eyes closed and lying on a mat, each person uses their own breath and the music in the room to enter a non-ordinary state of consciousness. This state activates the natural inner healing process of the individual's psyche, bringing him or her a particular set of internal experiences. With the inner healing intelligence guiding the process, the quality and content brought forth is unique to each person and for that particular time and place.
Some of the territories we may tap into are: post-natal biography, perinatal memories, physical or emotional events, physical sensations, deeper insights and/or the entire spectrum of transpersonal experiences. Additional elements of the process include focused energy release work, mandala drawing and group sharing.
My first encounter with Holotropic Breathwork resulted in a profound experience that led to a deep opening of psyche in a way I had never experienced before. The symbols and insights that came alive for me through that event have not ceased to work on me, even many years later, and I still have a deep and abiding relationship with certain guides that surfaced during that time. Since then, I have done dozens of breathwork sessions. Each has been different and profound in a new way, some more visual, some emotional and physical, but all variously seeming to provide release of deep-rooted patterns, as well as insight, understanding, expansion, and personal growth. I believe that Holotropic Breathwork, done with the help of trained facilitators using founder Stan Grof’s process, a strong container, and with respect for its sacred potential, can be one of the most transformational events available today. --
Bonnie Bright, M.A., Founder and Director, Depth Psychology Alliance
NEXT ONE DAY WORKSHOPS COMING UP:
Saturday, July 21st
Contact: Mireya at mireyaam@gmail.com